Five red sculptures have appeared on the streets of Kyiv. These art objects were installed on the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day and have not only artistic but also deep social and political significance. We'll tell you where to find them and what the meaning of each of them is

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At the end of August 2024, five mysterious red sculptures created by French artist James Kolomina appeared in the center of Kyiv. His works are dedicated to the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine's Independence Day and carry a deep symbolic meaning, emphasizing the pain and struggle of the Ukrainian people during the war.

Let's take a look at where to find them and what meaning is embedded in each of them.

• Girl with a heart and a teddy bear - Universytet metro station

This sculpture depicts a small child holding a heart in front of her face, with a teddy bear sitting next to her. It symbolizes the innocence and vulnerability of children who suffer during war.

Located at the Universytet metro station, this work reminds us of the tragic consequences of conflicts for the smallest and most vulnerable members of society.

jamescolomina/Instagram

• Girl on a swing - Alley of the Heavenly Hundred Heroes

This installation is located under the bridge over the Heavenly Hundred Heroes Alley. The sculpture depicts a little girl in a combat helmet riding a swing.

It emphasizes the contrast between childhood, which should be carefree, and the harsh reality of war.

UNIAN (Oleksandr Synytsia)

• Girl with sunflowers - Shevchenko Boulevard

The sculpture appeared on the pedestal where the monument to Mykola Shchors used to stand. A little girl holding sunflowers symbolizes renewal and hope for Ukraine.

The sunflower is a traditional Ukrainian symbol that is often used to represent peace, life, and a bright future.

jamescolomina/Instagram

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• Child and Trident - Main Post Office, Khreshchatyk

This work depicts a child emerging from the wall of the Main Post Office building on Khreshchatyk Street to draw a Ukrainian trident.

It symbolizes a new generation that is actively involved in the revival and strengthening of national identity, despite all the challenges.

jamescolomina/Instagram

• Dove - Independence Square

A sculpture of a dove with an olive branch in its beak is installed on a lamppost near Maidan Nezalezhnosti. This work embodies the aspirations of Ukrainians for peace and freedom, reminding us of the losses the country suffered during the war.

The sculpture is placed next to flags flying in honor of fallen soldiers, emphasizing the importance of the common goal of achieving peace.