Ukrainian street artists use ultra mobile projectors to help keep Ukraine unified.
From the Open Air Cinema archive. A field dispatch from the Open Air Cinema Foundation Ukraine, published in 2014. Preserved as a historical record of the Foundation’s work.
In February 2014, the media was filled with viral pictures and video of the Ukrainian capital on fire. Thousands of Ukrainians came out to the central square in a struggle for a democratic future for their country. In less than half a year this place has returned to its peaceful, day-to-day atmosphere, but for many Ukrainians it still remains a symbol of the Revolution of Dignity.
It was obvious to me that Kyiv should serve to express the common national idea — to become a new instrument to break through new challenges by means of art.
Artistic uses for the portable projection system
As we looked through the news feed of local social initiatives, we noticed announcements by young street artists. They were looking for a large-format printer that could produce banner-size pictures. The idea for the project, called ‘ART Mobilization,’ was to decorate an underground walkway with patriotic artwork. Sketches were attached, and we loved them at first glance. So we immediately contacted the artists and told them they needed no paper stencils — we could use a portable projection system instead! The sketches are projected onto the wall, and the only thing the artist then needs to do is draw in the details, just like a coloring book for children. Who knows how much Amazonian forest we saved with this decision!
The event was held on the day of Ukrainian Independence, which gave the initiative extra significance. Sketches were uploaded directly to the projector. No sockets were needed: the low-energy LED projector was powered by high-capacity portable batteries, and a bicycle-powered generator was on hand in case the crew needed more energy.
The result of our common work produced a series of works by Andriy Yermolenko — United Colors of Ukraine — dedicated to one of the most important modern Ukrainian issues: the unity of the country’s regions. An abstract painting by Margarita Kiselova depicts the chaos of war, reminding the calm and relaxed citizens of Kyiv about the military conflict at the eastern border.
Future portable projection system collaborations
Our sense of accomplishment in ‘ART Mobilization’ is that we helped create something that will remain for decades, using a non-traditional approach. We are excited about what a portable projection system makes possible, and we look forward to another project — ‘Dragon Capital Ukraine’ — which aims to beautify the boring suburban high-rise walls with contemporary art. To be continued.
Photos: Open Air Cinema Foundation Ukraine.
Open Air Cinema Foundation Ukraine.