In Kyiv, the new sculpture 'Origami Deer' was unveiled as the central exhibit of the Ukrainian pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale, set to take place in 2026.
Recently, in the cultural space 'Kudryavka', the artwork by Zhanna Kadyrova was presented as the main feature of the Ukrainian pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale. The sculpture, evacuated from Pokrovsk in 2024, is now embarking on an artistic tour across Ukrainian cities before its international premiere in Venice.
During the event, the artwork was displayed outdoors on a truck that served as a temporary stage.
“This project is not just a sculpture; it is a metaphor for a culture that is forced to flee. Just as people leave their homes, the 'Origami Deer' sets out on a journey. It’s absurd—a sculpture traveling the streets, but this is how it 'lives' right now. The main goal is to show that in Ukraine, despite the war, there is life. We continue to create, celebrate, and share. This project is proof that art does not stop,” said Zhanna Kadyrova during the presentation.
The artist recalled how she created the sculpture back in 2019 for Pokrovsk. After the full-scale invasion began, it was evacuated from the frontline area, and now it embarks on a new journey—from Ukrainian cities to Venice.
Kadyrova also expressed hope that this sculpture, belonging to the community of Pokrovsk, will be able to return home after the war ends.
Throughout the event, attendees had the opportunity to engage with the artist, watch the documentary film 'IDPs' about the evacuation of the sculpture, and participate in the filming of its sequel.
The musical program was provided by residents of the ABo, BRUKXT, and KUTT locations.
Before its international premiere, the 'Deer' will be showcased in several Ukrainian cities—Kyiv, Yasinia, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Lviv.
It is worth noting that the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions, will run from May 9 to November 22, 2026.
The Ukrainian pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale will present the project 'Security Guarantees'—a solo exhibition by artist Zhanna Kadyrova. The exhibition addresses the issue of unfulfilled international promises, particularly those made to Ukraine in exchange for denuclearization. Through art, it raises questions about the cost of security and trust in a global context.
The centerpiece of the exhibition will be the sculpture 'Origami Deer', evacuated from frontline Pokrovsk in 2024. The exhibition will also include archival documents related to the Budapest Memorandum and the film 'IDPs', which explores the experiences of internally displaced persons.
