The SMAK Gent, the City Museum of Modern Art in Ghent, hosted an exhibition of an art object as part of the ArtArmor project.
For the first time, used plates from bulletproof vests became an art object. The eerie traces of bullets and shrapnel that these plates stopped, saving the lives of Ukraine's defenders, tell the story better than any words. Art that saves lives has the power to evoke emotions, uniting people around the world.
The Embassy sincerely thanks the Belgian artist, existentialist Kris Martin, and the Belgian artist of Ukrainian origin Andrej Babenko for their creative approach and efforts to make this project a reality.
On the armor plate, the artists depicted the well-known biblical story of the battle between David and Goliath, as a confrontation between a strong, powerful invader many times smaller, but fearless young and resourceful David, who eventually defeated the seemingly stout enemy.
It is this legend that reminds us of the events of today, when a large and armed russia, like Goliath, entered into a battle with a much smaller and peaceful Ukraine, which is like a young David who went out without armor, having a strong faith in God and a sling to drive away predatory beasts.
This art object is very symbolic for us, as it symbolizes Victory! Ukraine will definitely defeat the cruel russian enemy!
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Philippe Van Cauteren, Director of the Museum, for supporting the project, promoting Ukrainian art in Belgium, and standing in solidarity with Ukraine in these challenging times for our country.
The proceeds from the project will be used to meet the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including the purchase of new protective equipment, demining equipment, and rehabilitation of Ukraine's defenders.
We thank everyone who cares about Ukraine!
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!