Art showing journey of escape from war-torn Ukraine goes on show in Liverpool
The 24-hour rail journey from Izyum to the Polish border was filmed in real-time
A new piece of art, showing the one-way journey of escape taken by many Ukrainians since the Russian invasion, is now on show at Liverpool Cathedral.
'Izyum to Liverpool' was filmed in real-time on a 24-hour rail journey from Izyum in Eastern Ukraine to the border with Poland.
The video installation is broadcast on 12 screens and gives a sense of travelling on a train carriage out of the war-torn country.
It shines a light on liberated Ukrainian cities, where buildings have been destroyed by bomb shelling and artillery fire, as well as offering views of apparently views of apparently stiller Western cities.
The installation was created by Katya Buchatska:
"For many, the train is the only means to escape war. Railway workers are considered heroes, risking their lives to help people travel out of the country.
"Izyum to Liverpool is about the fragility of our environment, our lives and of the landscape surrounding us. It is about the loss of certainties, of home, without knowing if you will ever be able to return. It is a one-way journey. It provokes a shift in the state of mind.
"Even if you are farther away from the front line, and in a safer environment, this feeling of loss and uncertainty stays with you."
The Dean of Liverpool, The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, said:
"It’s a huge honour for the city of Liverpool to be hosting The Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine and we’re looking forward to showcasing such a poignant Ukrainian artwork at Liverpool Cathedral during EuroFestival.
"We’re extremely grateful to Katya Buchatska, who is based in Kyiv, for this powerful reminder of why the event is happening in Liverpool. I would like to encourage visitors to take a moment for quiet contemplation as we reflect on the plight of the Ukrainian people."
Director of Culture Liverpool Claire McColgan, said:
"When we first read the proposal for Izyum to Liverpool we were floored by its powerful representation of the everyday in Ukraine through the medium of a train journey. Recreating this will be incredibly impactful, and given the stunning surroundings of Liverpool Cathedral, it will make it a sobering experience that will really resonate with visitors.
"Working with Katya has been a real pleasure and she is an incredible ambassador for her country and its people."