A celebration of Ukrainian literary heritage captivated audiences in Cardiff last week as the Central Library Hub hosted “Ukrainian Poetry Through the Ages,” a special evening of cultural exchange that coincided with Vyshyvanka Day celebrations across Wales.
Poetic Journey Through Ukrainian History
The evening offered attendees a unique journey through Ukraine’s rich poetic tradition, spanning from Kyivan Rus to contemporary Ukraine. The carefully curated program showcased works from iconic voices who have shaped Ukrainian national identity through centuries of cultural and political upheaval.
Readings featured poetry from national literary figures including Taras Shevchenko, Lesya Ukrainka, Ivan Franko, Pavlo Tychyna, Vasyl Stus, Lina Kostenko, and contemporary poet Serhiy Zhadan, among others. Each selection highlighted pivotal moments in Ukrainian literary development and the poets’ responses to their historical contexts.
Community Collaboration
The event represented a collaborative effort between Ukrainian cultural activists and local Welsh organizations, exemplifying the growing cultural bridge between Ukrainian refugees and their host communities in Wales.
Nick Wysoczanskyj of the Welsh Refugee Council, which supported the event alongside the National Heritage Fund, commented on the significance of such cultural gatherings: “These events play a crucial role in helping displaced Ukrainians maintain their cultural identity while building new connections in Wales.”
Local media outlet Caerphilly Observer provided coverage of the event, with journalist Rhys Williams producing a feature highlighting the importance of preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage during this challenging period for the Ukrainian nation.
Growing Cultural Presence
This literary evening represents the latest in a series of cultural initiatives organized by the Ukrainian community in Wales since 2022. From traditional celebrations to artistic showcases, these events serve dual purposes – preserving Ukrainian cultural identity for displaced communities while sharing Ukraine’s rich heritage with Welsh audiences.
As one organizer noted, “Together we are building a cultural bridge between Ukraine and Wales.”
The Ukrainian community in Wales continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience through cultural expression, using poetry, music, and traditional arts to maintain connections to their homeland while establishing new roots in Wales.
