Conversation with Taras Polataiko

Online Conversation with Artist & Activist Taras Polataiko.

Chernivtsi-based Ukrainian Canadian artist Taras Polataiko took some time from his busy schedule to speak with Jen Budney about his project Someone Prays For You. This art-fundraising effort has raised thousands and thousands of dollars which have gone towards medical supplies and protective equipment for civilians fighting on the frontlines of Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. Despite some initial technical difficulties, Taras was able to join Jen live to discuss life in Ukraine during the war, the importance of Ukrainian culture, and the role of artists in the defense.

The Ukrainian Museum of Canada extends a huge thank you to artist Denise Hawrysio, a contributor to Someone Prays for You, for contributing her thoughts and ideas as everyone waited for Taras to connect!

This conversation took place in conjunction with Taras Polataiko’s exhibition at the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, which runs until September 2, 2023.

Polataiko, who was born and raised in Ukraine and studied art in Moscow and Saskatoon, returned to his hometown following Russia’s full-scale assault on Ukraine. There, he has been raising money for medical supplies and protective equipment for Ukraine’s civilian defenders through his online artists’ project, Someone Prays For You. The Ukrainian Museum of Canada purchased works from Someone Prays for You using donated funds and an exhibition of Polataiko’s own collaborate photographs is now on display at the Museum.

Recorded on Wednesday, August 9, 2023