In Kyiv, the Art Arsenal will soon host a significant exhibition dedicated to the esteemed Ukrainian poet Vasyl Stus, who suffered repression under the Russian regime.

The project, titled "Vasyl Stus. As Long as We Are Here, Everything Will Be Alright", will run from November 13 to February 8, occupying six halls of the Old Arsenal located on Lavrska Street.

The title of the exhibition is taken from a letter Stus wrote to his friend Anatoliy Lazorenko in 1962, stating, "As long as we are here, everything will be alright." The organizers believe these words resonate with anyone seeking strength in today’s turbulent world.

The exhibition aims to introduce visitors to various facets of Vasyl Stus's life and work, showcasing his intellectual contributions.

"It’s impressive how Stus remained true to his principles, striving to avoid hypocrisy and falsehood, ultimately leading to his isolation," the organizers note.

Curator Olha Melnyk emphasizes that visitors will not see a conventional biography of Stus.

"Our narrative focuses on key episodes that illuminate his literary legacy, shared through the testimonies of those who experienced his life during the 1960s to 1980s," she explains.

This exhibition marks the first major project of the Art Arsenal following the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"This project is highly significant for us, as it aims to enlighten a new generation about Stus. We are preparing educational programs to help visitors discover new aspects of his work," said director Olesya Ostrovskaya-Lyuta.

Attendees will have access to a vast array of archival materials, hearing the voices of Stus and his contemporaries reading their poetry.

The project draws parallels between Stus's era and the present, highlighting common struggles for identity.

Throughout the exhibition, Vasyl Stus's poems will be read by well-known Ukrainian artists.