Residents of Bakhmut in Poltava took part in the “Ornament of Unity” workshop as part of the national project “Side by Side: United Communities,” which brought together people of different professions, generations, and backgrounds around shared Ukrainian values.
The event took place at the Youth Initiative Space as part of the “Learn Ukrainian” project, organized by the Department of Culture and Youth of the Poltava City Council.
The space brought together military personnel, representatives of the National Police of Ukraine and the State Emergency Service, volunteers, veterans, internally displaced persons, educators, medical professionals, community leaders, active youth, and families who were forced to leave their homes due to the war.
The main feature of the event was an ancient Ukrainian technique—block printing on canvas. Participants learned about the symbolism of Ukrainian embroidery, the meanings of patterns and colors, and created their own eco-friendly shopping bags using traditional wooden stamps and paints.
Through authentic patterns, people expressed their emotions, encoded personal meanings, and dreams for the future. But the most valuable aspect of the day was the atmosphere—lively interaction, heartfelt conversations, hugs, and stories that participants shared while creating together.
Based on materials from the Bakhmut City Council