Grains of Identity: Bread and Wheat in Ukrainian Art History

In this two part lecture series, Oleksandra Kovalchuk, the Director of Development of the Odesa Fine Arts Museum, delves into Ukraine’s rich artistic heritage, symbolic traditions, and the remarkable resilience displayed in times of the full scale invasion by the Russian Federation. From the courageous efforts of museums during the war to the cultural significance of bread in traditional and modern art, these lectures provide a comprehensive insight into the spirit and identity of Ukrainian people and history.

This lecture delves into the symbolic and cultural significance of bread and wheat in Ukrainian art and identity. We will explore how these elements have been deeply interwoven into the fabric of Ukrainian history, from traditional folk art to modern artistic expressions. Join us to discover how bread and wheat go beyond just being food, showing the strength and spirit of the Ukrainian people.

All funds go to Dobro New England to support humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

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About the Presenter

Oleksandra Kovalchuk is the Director of Development at the Odesa Fine Arts Museum, leader of the non-governmental organization Museum for Change, and acting member of the Odesa city council. After the beginning of a full-scale military invasion, Ms. Kovalchuk arrived in Massachusetts with her husband and son. Since then she has been working to raise awareness about Ukrainian culture and the efforts of museums to protect Ukrainian heritage. During the years of war, she has been a presenter in such institutions as Boston University, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the Peabody Essex Museum, the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, and The House of Seven Gables.