Cultural diplomacy today is no longer just about presenting art. It is about creating joint projects, building strong international connections, and speaking to the world through the language of aesthetics and values. Such a landmark event on the European cultural map became the first solo exhibition in Europe of the talented Ukrainian artist Olena Mushchynska (originally from the Zhytomyr region).
The exhibition, bearing the profound title “The Universe of the Ukrainian Soul. The Genetic Code of Freedom,” opened its doors in the very heart of Denmark at Esromgade 15, Copenhagen. The event became a unique platform that brought together diplomats, opinion leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists. A defining feature of the evening was its synergistic atmosphere: the venue hosted both a large Ukrainian community in Denmark and a refined Danish audience. This created a true living bridge between the two countries, allowing international guests to gain a deeper understanding of the mentality, resilience, and spiritual strength of the Ukrainian people through the lens of visual art.
For Olena Mushchynska, this project became both a serious professional challenge and a demonstration of a high level of artistic preparation. Specifically for the European release, the artist carried out tremendous work and created 21 entirely new paintings. To ensure that the Danish audience and international guests could immerse themselves in the philosophy of each piece without barriers, the organizers provided impeccable textual adaptation — all descriptions, explications, and catalog materials were professionally translated into Danish and English.
The official program of the evening, which began at 5:30 PM, was structured according to the highest standards of social and business events. Guests were welcomed by representatives of leading institutions whose joint efforts made this large-scale project possible — Leadership Academy Bevar Ukraine, the Bevar Ukraine charitable foundation, the creative platform Academy of Creative Heart, and the international media partner Business Woman magazine. Speakers emphasized the importance of supporting Ukrainian cultural products in Europe.
A special aesthetic highlight of the event was the refined live musical accompaniment by talented Ukrainian pianists Yevheniia and Nika. The classical and instrumental compositions performed in the hall enhanced the emotional dramaturgy of the artworks, creating an atmosphere of full immersion into high art for both Ukrainian and Danish audiences.
A particularly touching moment was the reading of a well-known poem by Pavlo Vyshebaba, presented in two languages — Ukrainian and Danish. This allowed every guest, regardless of nationality, to fully feel the power of the Ukrainian word.
In an exclusive blitz interview, Olena Mushchynska openly shared her emotions, artistic philosophy, and how art can break down any prejudice.
— Olena, your exhibition is dedicated to the genetics of the Ukrainian code. Which element did you primarily seek to visualize in your works?
— First of all, I wanted to show how strong the Ukrainian people are. No matter what happens, we continue to work, create, and preserve beauty, no matter how difficult it is. In my works, I sought to demonstrate that even despite all challenges, our creativity lives on — we remain free even in such difficult conditions. I wanted the world to see our strength, willpower, courage, and unity. I want the international community to understand that despite any hardships, we want, we can, and we will continue to create and live.
— How does the European, particularly Danish, audience perceive your patriotic works? Does art help build this bridge of diplomacy?
— Last year, when I was actively studying the Danish language, my teacher asked me to create a painting inspired by a well-known Danish song. It started as a sketch, a series of small works created with watercolor and sketch markers. Later, these drawings were beautifully framed, and an exhibition was organized. For over eight months, the works adorned the space of a job center and a library in Copenhagen. Danes truly appreciate and value Ukrainian art — for them, it is a discovery of our refined and unique culture.
When the Danish audience looks at works created by Ukrainian hands, they discover the true character of our people. In my patriotic paintings, they clearly read three fundamental pillars of our spirit: Freedom, Strength, and Courage.
The exhibition was attended by a large number of visitors — both Ukrainians and local Danes. It was deeply moving, even to tears, to witness their heartfelt responses. These small watercolor works managed to touch the most delicate strings of every viewer’s soul. Each person saw something personal in them: Ukrainians felt a bittersweet sense of home and shared pain, while Danes discovered a deeper, more personal story of our struggle and resilience. Everyone found a part of themselves within the paintings.
It is precisely through such events that art fulfills its highest mission of cultural diplomacy. It does not merely present creativity — it engraves in the memory of Europeans the three essential and inseparable pillars of the Ukrainian character: Freedom, Strength, and Courage.
The artist also noted that incredible people supported her in the organization and realization of the project — particularly the team from the Leadership Academy.
— It was their leadership-driven creative project that helped bring this vision to life. They invested their time and effort — people who shared my vision and fully supported the idea, motivated by the project and its values.
“The Genetic Code of Freedom” in Copenhagen proved that when Ukrainian resilience is combined with high professionalism and the support of strong institutions, art becomes an uncompromising language of international leadership. The event left a deep mark in the hearts of both Danes and Ukrainians, reminding us all that beauty and freedom know no borders.
Art is the voice of our nation abroad.
Let us open Ukrainian culture to the world — together.
Read also: Diva Maria Luhanska — the heavenly patroness of Argentina’s national team
Author: Olena Liaudanskaite
Photos: courtesy of the event organizers