The Modern Art Programme: Creativity Through Resilience Exhibition
The Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC) launched the Modern Art Programme’s first exhibition, titled Creativity Through Resilience. During the launch, there was a Q&A session with Ukrainian artists who took part in the project at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery on Monday 3rd February.
The exhibition showcases Ukrainian refugees works of art produced via a project aimed to support them express their feelings having fled the war in Ukraine. The Modern Art Programme was conceived by Natasha Stoianovska, who felt it was important to use art as a tool enable Ukrainians to express themselves in a safe space.
The exhibition is part of a wider Made In Birmingham exhibition currently on display at the gallery.
“We created a language that everyone could understand”
Lead artist, facilitator and curator of the exhibition, Natasha, put the project together to provide a place for Ukrainian refugees to come together, to express themselves and find others that could relate to their experiences. Her artistic background as a modern artist enabled her to use her creative skills to curate this programme and her shared Ukrainian heritage, allowed her to be able to relate to those participating.
Over the 8 weeks, the participants created many pieces, learnt new skills, and most importantly, felt heard. This was a common thought felt by the participants. Having all experienced the pain of fleeing their home, this was a chance to talk, to discuss and share. Not only this but, their artwork has helped others understand their pain, understand what they have been through. The shared language, was the art itself.
The Modern Art Programme
The exhibition may have been the final piece, but the 8 weeks of the programme creating the pieces was where the real impact was felt.
For those taking part, it was transformative, helping limit social isolation, reduce stress, and spark creativity.
Speaking at the launch event, Natasha spoke proudly of the project having seen the benefit it had provided to those involved, including herself.
All of the artists spoke of the value of having a safe space, to talk about their experiences, and highlighted the need for a facilitator like Natasha, who provided a calm, caring and welcoming space for people to gather.
The Exhibition Launch with Q&A
During the launch, a number of the artists came together to talk about the project, their pieces and their experiences. Some had an artistic background, whilst others had none. All found the programme hugely beneficial.
One of the participants, Natalia, had no previous experience of taking part in creative activity, but was inspired by Natasha and the project. Speaking at the Q&A, she spoke about how Natasha “highlighted my strengths and directed me in these classes. The value of these classes goes beyond the artistic elements and included a release of emotions where we also created together. We transformed the negative into positive.”
Artur on the other hand, a participant with an extensive artistic background as an experienced artist, wanted to get involved to support his own mental health and use his existing skills. “Natasha and RMC were my support, this course helped me get out of my depression and communicate. I have my own exhibition now in another location. After this programme, a psychological weight has been lifted from being part of this collaboration.”
During the event, guests had the chance to explore the exhibition, speak to the artists, as well as asking questions and hearing about the participants experiences of the programme and what the pieces represented.
RMC is grateful for the support of the Birmingham Museums Trust, who offered their support with the showcasing of the Modern Art Programme and private launch event.
The exhibition can be viewed until the 2nd March 2025.
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