My art at the celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day in Perpignan

Author: Anna Mamchur (Liakhovetska)
Location: Perpignan, Pyrénées-Orientales, France
Event date: 21 August 2025

A family moment: event hosts

What made the day special for me was the important role my family played in the programme. The event in Ukrainian was hosted by my husband, Mykhailo, while our daughter Nina translated into French. Their teamwork built a bridge between cultures and allowed every guest to feel part of the occasion. For me it became a symbol of generational unity and the importance of family in preserving language and culture.

Music, songs, and performances

Throughout the celebration, numerous talented Ukrainian vocalists and musicians from Perpignan and the surrounding area performed. Their songs resonated with deep emotion and drew genuine admiration from the audience. The atmosphere was festive and warm at the same time — each performance reminded us of the strength of the Ukrainian spirit and the beauty of our culture.

Women performed traditional and contemporary Ukrainian songs, and the young host added a special family cosiness to the event. It was a moment when voices, words, and music merged into the shared breath of the community.

My stand and paintings

In the venue where the celebration took place, there was also my stand with artworks. I presented a selection of acrylic canvases — landscapes of the Pyrenees, paintings with Ukrainian symbols, and works dedicated to light and space. For many visitors, this display became an opportunity to discover Ukrainian art in a new context.

People came up, looked closely at the paintings, and asked about the stories behind them. Children paid particular attention: they spent a long time observing the colours and details of the canvases, which once again proved that the language of art is clear to everyone, regardless of age or origin.

Symbolism and meaning

I was the only artist from Ukraine who presented works at this celebration. This had a special meaning for me: my paintings became part of a broader space where songs, speeches, and words of gratitude were heard. Together we created a cultural image of Ukraine — colourful, strong, and inspired.

Gratitude

I am sincerely grateful to the organisers of the Cœur Ukrainien d’Occitanie association for the warm welcome and the opportunity to take part in the celebration. My thanks also go to everyone who approached my stand, shared impressions, and offered kind words of support.

This day in Perpignan will remain a significant event for me — a reminder that art, words, and music together can build bridges and inspire people regardless of borders.

This article is about the people, language, and music that unite us. If it resonated with you, share it with those who are inspired by culture and art.