Past Event
Engaging the Arts for a Vibrant, International Ukraine
Jamala's victory at the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest reminded the Ukrainian political class of the critical role arts and culture play in foreign relations and their unique ability to promote national interests. Ukraine’s culture holds tremendous potential to counteract what many perceive as a growing “Ukraine fatigue” in the West. To what extent do Ukraine's political and economic elites grasp this possibility and have a strategy? The speakers will discuss how to develop Ukraine's “soft power” in light of existing economic constraints and informational challenges. The panel will be followed by a reception celebrating the exhibition of Victor Sydorenko's photos, statues, and video works.
Speakers
H.E. Hanna Hopko
Member of parliament and head of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
Kateryna Smagliy
Counselor, Political Affairs and Public Diplomacy, Embassy of Ukraine in the USA
Victor Sydorenko
Artist; Director, Modern Art Research Institute, National Academy of Arts of Ukraine
Olha Ivanova
Counselor on Cultural Issues, Embassy of Ukraine to the US
Hosted By
Kennan Institute
The Kennan Institute is the premier US center for advanced research on Eurasia and the oldest and largest regional program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The Kennan Institute is committed to improving American understanding of Russia, Ukraine, Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the surrounding region though research and exchange. Read more