The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein: Episode Summary Episode Title: A Culture at War: Ukraine and the Art of Resistance
Release Date: October 23, 2024

In this poignant episode of The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein, host Dan Rubenstein delves into the resilience and creativity of Ukrainian artists and designers amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The episode spotlights five remarkable individuals who harness art and design as tools of resistance, survival, and cultural preservation. Through engaging conversations, listeners gain insight into how these creatives navigate the challenges of war while contributing to Ukraine's vibrant cultural identity.

1. Maxim Gorbatsky & Victoria Bavykina: Curators Behind the Ukrainian Pavilion

Guests: Maxim Gorbatsky and Victoria Bavykina
Segments Covered: Curating the Ukrainian Pavilion at the Venice Art Biennale, founding Ukrainian Photographies, and the concept of Net Making.

Max and Victoria, a dynamic Ukrainian couple based in Liverpool, opened the episode by discussing their journey from Ukraine to the UK and their decision to stay despite the escalating conflict. They provided a detailed account of curating Net, the Ukrainian pavilion at the recent Venice Art Biennale, and establishing Ukrainian Photographies, a platform dedicated to researching and promoting Ukrainian photography.

Notable Quote:

Max Gorbatsky [02:00]: "We had an option to like break down, give up. And the second option was, what can we do to save our country and our studio."

They elaborated on the theme of Net Making, symbolizing the collective effort and social cohesion in Ukrainian society. This metaphor extends beyond practical camouflage net weaving, representing how communities bond and support each other during times of crisis.

Notable Quote:

Max Gorbatsky [08:22]: "Net making refers to the very widespread practice of weaving camouflage nets... It can be a way to socialize, to have a sense of belonging, to feel useful for your country."

Victoria discussed the architectural challenges of setting up the pavilion, emphasizing the blend of traditional Ukrainian canvas weaving with contemporary artistic expressions to create a narrative bridging past and present struggles.

Notable Quote:

Victoria Bavykina [11:25]: "We wanted to build a narrative from the past to our present life, making it the background of the exhibition and reflecting Ukrainian resilience."

2. Sasha Topolnyca: Constructing Hope Ukraine Exhibition

Guest: Sasha Topolnyca
Segments Covered: Curating the Constructing Hope Ukraine exhibition at New York's Center for Architecture, highlighting decentralized reconstruction projects like Rave Toloka.

Sasha provided an overview of the Constructing Hope Ukraine exhibition, emphasizing its focus on grassroots architectural efforts responding to the invasion. She highlighted projects that demonstrate resilience, such as modular furniture designs and memory/documentation spaces. A standout project discussed was Rave Toloka, which merges traditional community-building with modern cultural expressions.

Notable Quote:

Sasha Topolnyca [32:41]: "Rave Toloka is about uniting tradition with the new generation, teaching traditional reconstruction techniques while infusing modern cultural elements like music and dance."

Sasha underscored the importance of documenting ongoing efforts to rebuild, ensuring that these initiatives receive international attention and support.

Notable Quote:

Sasha Topolnyca [26:16]: "We believe the work we're exhibiting resonates beyond the Ukrainian context and engages interdisciplinary and global audiences."

3. Victoria Katrieva & Andrey Anissimov: Between the Walls Design Firm

Guests: Victoria Katrieva and Andrey Anissimov
Segments Covered: Running a design firm during wartime, the impact of conflict on creative processes, and the significance of design in cultural resistance.

Victoria and Andrey, founders of the award-winning design firm Between the Walls, shared their experiences managing a creative business amidst the turmoil in Kyiv. They discussed the practical challenges, such as electricity shortages, and how they maintain operational continuity through generators and satellite internet.

Notable Quote:

Max Gorbatsky [40:35]: "We faced enormous problems and had to decide what we can do to save our country and our studio. Our team is our greatest value."

They also reflected on the evolving Ukrainian design scene, noting its progressive and forward-looking nature despite historical influences. Victoria highlighted projects like the One by One retail boutique, which combines aesthetic appeal with functionality to create engaging, Instagrammable spaces.

Notable Quote:

Andrey Anissimov [46:34]: "Our clients choose us because we don't stick to specific styles. We combine uncombinable elements to reflect our clients' unique identities."

Victoria emphasized the role of design in fostering community and cultural identity, even during conflict.

Notable Quote:

Victoria Bavykina [56:44]: "For everyone who wants to create something, even in hard situations, you can find a solution and be yourself. Stay forward."

4. Overcoming Adversity Through Creativity

Throughout the episode, the guests consistently highlighted the intersection of art, design, and resilience. They illustrated how Ukrainian creatives leverage their skills not just for aesthetic purposes but as means of survival, resistance, and maintaining national identity. The discussions underscored the critical role of international support and recognition in sustaining these efforts.

Notable Quote:

Max Gorbatsky [55:34]: "We want people to live with Ukrainian resilience... to know that Ukraine has a great culture and a strong identity."

5. Reflections and Future Aspirations

As the episode concluded, guests shared their hopes for Ukraine's cultural future post-conflict. Maxim expressed his desire for the safety of cultural contributors and the continuation of Ukraine's vibrant artistic endeavors. Sasha and the design duo envisioned a post-war Ukraine where traditional craftsmanship and modern creativity coalesce to rebuild and redefine the nation's cultural landscape.

Notable Quote:

Max Gorbatsky [23:45]: "I have zero doubts about Ukrainian cultural identity and potential. It's becoming even stronger and more vibrant."

Conclusion

Dan Rubenstein's episode A Culture at War: Ukraine and the Art of Resistance serves as a compelling testament to the enduring spirit of Ukrainian artists and designers. By showcasing their innovative approaches and unwavering determination, the episode not only highlights the challenges faced but also celebrates the profound contributions of these creatives to Ukraine's cultural resilience and global artistic landscape.