This spring, we had the pleasure of hosting visual artist Liubov Romaniuk, from the Donetsk region of Ukraine, at the Artists at Risk (AR) – Safe Haven Helsinki.
Romaniuk’s artistic practice focuses on natural resources and the way people interact with our planet. Regarding her inspiration, she shared, “I think the war in my country made me realise how conflicts affect the environment and our global future. The world we live in is so beautiful, but the fear of losing it inspires me to work with this topic.”
The residency provided Romaniuk with a peaceful, quiet place where she could explore important questions for her artistic practice. “Because I had constant stress and danger in my life, I felt how hard it was to concentrate on my work, which requires time and a safe space”, explained Romaniuk.
In Helsinki, she had the opportunity to meet international artists and display her own exhibition at the Myymälä2 gallery. Additionally, she has been able to visit numerous exhibitions in the city, which have broadened her practice and prompted her to consider new artistic tools.
Romaniuk is currently working on the theme of migration, since starting a new life in another country is a new experience for her. After the conclusion of her residency in spring 2025, Romaniuk worked on a new project in AR’s studio over the summer, and is now continuing her artistic practice in Finland.
