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'It has become a symbol of hope': the epic journey of Ukraine’s origami deer to the Venice biennale
As cities emptied on the eve of Russia’s full-scale invasion, artist Zhanna Kadyrova’s defiant concrete sculpture began its odyssey to this year’s festival
TL;DR
- The concrete origami deer sculpture by Zhanna Kadyrova is traveling to the Venice Biennale as Ukraine's national pavilion.
- The sculpture was evacuated from Pokrovsk, Ukraine, during intense fighting and has become a symbol of hope and memory for refugees.
- Its journey across Europe is a metaphor for Ukrainian displacement and the ongoing impact of the Russian invasion.
- The biennale's decision to include Russia has caused controversy and threatens to overshadow Ukraine's exhibition.
- The sculpture's installation in Venice will be suspended, hinting at an uncertain future and its lack of a permanent home.