Semen Shyrochyn: The architecture of post-war modernism in Kyiv: key examples and problems of preservation

In June, the House of Arts Brno, in cooperation with BAM and thanks to the support of the Brno Artists in Residence project, hosts Semen Shyrochyn, a popularizer of the architectural heritage of Ukrainian modernism, to whose lecture we cordially invite you:

The post-war period was a time when Kyiv grew rapidly. Thousands of new buildings were built, including huge residential estates the size of towns. Many unique objects were created, some of which became known throughout the world. Ukrainian modernism has its own unique face, with monumental art and other features.

Although it is a part of world modernist heritage, very little of it is protected by law. The value of this heritage is mostly underrated or misunderstood, both by the people and official bodies. Many buildings are in poor condition and suffer from inadequate maintenance, modifications and parasitic structures. The situation with monumental art is even worse, in that it is endangered and is mostly not even officially recognized. Nevertheless, small groups of researchers, enthusiasts and activists are trying to make a change.

The lecture will present some of the best examples of Ukrainian modernism in Kyiv, fine buildings that are endangered or have been demolished. There will be discussion of successful and unsuccessful cases of protection and the problems of perception, especially after the de-communization process began. Since the start of war, the situation has deteriorated further: Now this modernist heritage is threatened by developers, Russian missiles and vandals who treat Ukrainian modernism as the legacy of Russian occupants.

The lecture in English will take place on June 15 at 6 pm, Dům pánů z Kunštátu, Gallery G99, Dominikánská 9

Admission is free, no reservation is required.