On 13-14 July 2024, the Ukraine is in Europe: Solidarity with Ukrainian Youth Artists project concluded with a powerful cultural event in Sofia that brought together over 30 artists from Ukraine, Bulgaria, Romania, and Spain. The event celebrated artistic expression, cultural unity, and solidarity, while also serving a meaningful cause. The event was a huge success, featuring three captivating sessions: an Exhibition, a Concert night, and Literature readings. Each session not only showcased the immense talent of the participating artists but also raised funds for UNESCO Bulgaria.
A Memorable Exhibition
The cultural event kicked off with an impressive Exhibition, which was both attended in person by more than 100 visitors and streamed online for a broader audience. The exhibition featured stunning works of art created by Ukrainian and Bulgarian artists, representing the resilience, hopes, and dreams of youth affected by the ongoing conflict. Visitors had the chance to purchase artistic works, with all proceeds being donated to support charitable causes through UNESCO Bulgaria.
Missed the exhibition? Watch the Exhibition Streaming and relive the experience.
A Concert Night to Remember
The evening continued with an unforgettable Concert night, headlined by the iconic Vasko the Patch and his band, Poduene Blues Band. The concert was a vibrant celebration of unity and music, bringing together audiences from different backgrounds to celebrate creativity and support a good cause. Ukrainian and Bulgarian musicians joined together, filling the night with joy, powerful performances, and a shared passion for music. All the tickets sold for the concert were donated to UNESCO Bulgaria, further amplifying the impact of the event.
Missed the concert? Watch the Concert Streaming and enjoy the energy of the performance!
Literature Readings: Words Against War
The final session of the event featured thought-provoking Literature readings, where poets and writers from both Ukraine and Bulgaria shared their literary works. The readings reflected on the pain of war, the power of resilience, and the dreams of a peaceful future. The session was honored by the participation of representatives from the Ukrainian Embassy, adding diplomatic support to the event’s anti-war message.
The literature readings were an emotional experience, showing the enduring power of words in the face of conflict. Books sold during the readings contributed to the overall donations made to UNESCO Bulgaria.
Missed the readings? Watch the Literature Readings Streaming for a powerful experience.
A Cause Close to Heart
This cultural event wasn’t just about celebrating art—it was about making a difference. Part of the proceeds from all artistic works sold during the exhibition, concert ticket sales, and books sold during the literature readings were donated to UNESCO Bulgaria, which also had representatives attending the event. UNESCO’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation and education aligned perfectly with the spirit of this initiative.
A Celebration of Partnership and Unity
This event marked the culmination of the Ukraine is in Europe: Solidarity with Ukrainian Youth Artists project. It gathered together the project partners, young artists, stakeholders, and supporters from across Europe. The collaboration between these countries and their artists demonstrated the power of art to unite, inspire, and make a real impact.
We are incredibly proud of the success of this event and grateful for the support of everyone who participated and contributed. From the artists to the audience, from UNESCO to the Ukrainian Embassy, every individual involved played a role in making this event a success.
All activities were streamed online, allowing people from around the world to participate and support this cause. The event may be over, but the impact of the art and the funds raised will continue to resonate.
