10-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Exhibition hopes to showcase artwork of Ukrainian refugees
The aim is to hold a showcase in Leith next month which would be a 'pivotal' moment for the 25 artists.
It is being organised by award-winning social enterprise Abandoned Artists CIC, which is dedicated to supporting displaced and refugee artists to rebuild their creative lives in Scotland.
A spokesperson said: 'The exhibition is a pivotal moment for our cohort of displaced Ukrainian artists to transform their traumatic experiences into the future, breaking down barriers and building meaningful connections.
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'It is also our collective attempt to navigate the integration of displaced artists into the local arts scene as active, valued members of society.
'This showcase will celebrate not just survival but an artistic evolution. More than an exhibition, it's a call to reflect on how art helps us belong, integrate and begin again together. It marks a moment of visibility for artists who, until now, have not had the platform to be seen or heard by wider audiences.'
The organisation said that while it was very grateful for donations and support already received, cash was still needed and the only way to overcome some 'massive barriers' the displaced artists face to take part in the show.
Most of the refugee artists have been housed far beyond the central belt, often in remote areas of Scotland, so funds are needed to cover public transport tickets, accommodation and small bursaries to allow two days of installation and the opening night in Edinburgh.
There are also some installation and equipment hire costs so both individual and corporate sponsorship would be welcome.
The exhibition is planned for Custom House from September 3 to September 7. Working across many disciplines, the artists will reflect not only on what they have left behind but on how they have continued to create, adapt, and speak through their practice.
Abandoned Artists CIC was founded in 2023 by Ukrainian-born, Scottish-based research artist and curator Alena Rogozhkina (below), who has had difficulty visiting close family members such as her parents since 2014 when Russia began the Donbas occupation.
The organisation's mission is to be a lasting support structure for displaced and refugee artists, 'unlocking their full potential by nurturing creative expression, supporting professional development, and prioritising mental wellbeing'.
'Our main objective is to create a thriving artistic community where displaced artists are recognised, valued, and given the opportunities they deserve,' a spokesperson said.
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