From Auction to Action: Delivering Vital Equipment to Ukraine’s Heroes
Anna Cherevko
Table of Contents
Several months ago, the Ukrainian Fund for Digitized Art, in partnership with the Prytula Charity Foundation, held its first-ever charity NFT auction. Over three days of spirited bidding, every lot was sold, raising a total of 37,700 USDC to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Now, the equipment and technology purchased with these funds have finally reached their intended recipients!
A Collaborative Effort: Art for Defense
The Ukrainian Fund of Digitized Art, in collaboration with the Serhiy Prytula Foundation, held its inaugural auction featuring digitized works by world-renowned Ukrainian artists Zhanna Kadyrova, Nikita Kadan, and Waone. 100% of the proceeds from the artwork sales, nearly 1.5 million UAH, were allocated to procure technology and equipment for Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
Supporting the Forces: Where the Funds Went
The auction's proceeds have already made a tangible impact, providing critical tools to various units.
Specifically, the State Border Guard Service's Special Operations Unit received a MAPA unmanned aerial system. This system enables the military to conduct reconnaissance up to 45 kilometers behind enemy lines. Thanks to such systems, up to 500 targets were identified last month alone!
The 128th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade “Dyke Pole” received components for fiber-optic drone systems. These systems allow operators to remain undetected, work without interference, and maintain precision even under conditions of enemy signal jamming.
The 130th Separate Battalion of the 241st Kyiv Territorial Defense Brigade received generators, charging stations, and Mavic drones. Generators and charging stations ensure round-the-clock connectivity with command centers, while Mavic drones serve as the military’s "eyes," enabling rapid coordination of strikes against enemy forces.
Spotlight on Artists and Their Works
The auction highlighted digital originals by three of Ukraine's most renowned contemporary artists:
- Zhanna Kadyrova (b. 1981, Brovary):
A multidisciplinary artist whose work spans sculpture, video, performance, and photography, Kadyrova's series "Anxiety" juxtaposes traditional Ukrainian embroidery with urgent war messages. Her work reflects the emotional and psychological toll of living under constant threat.
- Nikita Kadan (b. 1982, Kyiv):
Known for his direct approach to themes of political resistance and historical memory, Kadan's work "Fuck War" transforms a defiant phrase into a powerful visual protest. Its repeated inscription echoes global anti-war sentiments and is a poignant act of resistance.
- Waone Interesni Kazki (b. 1981):
A surrealist who fuses folklore, mythology, and metaphysics, Waone's "Victory"—originally conceived as a mural—depicts a dramatic confrontation between a Ukrainian Cossack and a russian bear. The defeated bear, marked with Soviet symbols, represents a symbolic triumph over totalitarian oppression. Part of the Time for Change 3 series, this piece was created in October 2022 as a tribute to Ukrainian heroes defending their homeland.
Art, Technology, and Philanthropy: A Historic Milestone
By uniting art, technology, and philanthropy, the Ukrainian Fund for Digitized Art has demonstrated the power of creativity in supporting national defense. This auction not only celebrated Ukrainian culture but also made a direct contribution to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
As these contributions take effect on the frontlines, this initiative stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Ukraine—resilient, innovative, and united in the face of adversity.