UFDA's Articles: Insights into Ukraine's Art and Culture 47

In a world where almost everything is going digital, art has not been an exception. What's happening with the art market after the NFT boom? Have "digital art" sales remained just a bubble, or have they become an important part of contemporary culture?

Following the success of the UFDA's first auction, we’re excited to announce that you can now request Digital Originals of masterpieces directly from our online catalogue. This unique opportunity allows both seasoned and aspiring collectors to own digitized works of art!

Ukrainian artist Zhanna Kadyrova, renowned for her innovative multimedia work, has won the first Her Art Prize 2025 for her project Refugees, which documents the interiors of war-damaged buildings. Founded by Art Paris and Marie Claire in partnership with Boucheron, the prize celebrates women artists and includes a €30,000 award. This year marks another milestone for Kadyrova, who also won the Shevchenko Prize in Visual Arts and achieved success at UFDA's auction with her work Anxiety.

An upcoming talk titled "Art and the Product Approach: The Story Behind the Launch of the Ukrainian Fund of Digitized Art" will feature Anna Filippova, founder of UFDA—the largest digital art repository in Ukraine. Taking place on April 8 at 18:30, the event explores how blockchain technology is being used to preserve cultural heritage. In her talk, she'll share insights on launching a cultural-tech startup, covering idea validation, team building, management structures, and overcoming challenges—offering key lessons for museum professionals, heritage workers, and digital product developers.

Marina Abramović, celebrated for her pioneering performances, is now exploring the world of blockchain technology. The artist is broadening her artistic practice through the "Marina Abramović Element" (MAE) project. This shift prompts thought-provoking questions about the evolution of art and the interplay between physical presence and digital representation in the context of contemporary creativity.

The Ukrainian Fund of Digitized Art (UFDA) continues its vital mission of digitizing and preserving Ukrainian art for future generations. Recently, the fund has expanded its online catalog with works by Krystyna Melnyk.

Zhanna Kadyrova has become the first woman in 20 years to receive the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine in visual art. She was honored for her project Flying Trajectories, exhibited at the PinchukArtCentre in 2023. The exhibition includes works such as Shots and Safe War, featuring metal sheets pierced by shrapnel, turning them into war testimonies. Through her art, Kadyrova highlights Ukraine’s reality and challenges global awareness. A renowned artist with international recognition, she continues to use her work to reflect on identity, history, and resilience. This award marks a significant moment for Ukrainian contemporary art.

The Ukrainian Fund of Digitized Art (UFDA) invites Ukrainian museums, art institutions, galleries, and artists—particularly those in regions most affected by the ongoing war—to join our open call and contribute to safeguarding the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Complete the application form to take the first step!