An exhibition titled Shadow of the Night will open in Washington, San Francisco, Lewes, and Berlin — an international art project dedicated to Ukraine’s experience during the harshest winter for its energy systems.
The initiative was launched by the Energy Act for Ukraine Foundation in collaboration with Artists Support Ukraine, in response to Russia’s massive attacks on civilian energy infrastructure during the winter of 2025–2026. The project aims to show an international audience how systematic destruction of infrastructure translates into the daily realities of millions of people — darkness, cold, disruptions to medical care, halted work, and constant adaptation to new conditions.
Shadow of the Night is presented in a Ready-to-Print format, allowing cultural institutions in different countries to print and display the works independently, without complicated logistics or transporting originals. The exhibition can exist as a single public image or as a full-scale display with educational and discussion programs.
Partners already involved include Georgetown University, the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco, the art space Hotel Continental — Art Space in Exile, and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. The exhibitions are timed to coincide with the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion.
Beyond its cultural purpose, the project has a charitable goal: raising funds to install a hybrid solar power station for the Zvenyhorodka Multidisciplinary Intensive Care Hospital in Cherkasy Region. The 30 kW system with batteries will provide uninterrupted power to operating rooms, intensive care units, and critical equipment during blackouts.
“This exhibition is a way to turn attention into action. When millions of people are left without light and heat, international solidarity can have a practical impact — supporting energy resilience where it saves lives,” emphasizes Ulyana Onishchuk, director of the foundation.
Curator Katya Taylor adds that Shadow of the Night speaks through personal experience: Ukrainian artists’ works don’t explain the war, but allow viewers to feel its everyday reality — fatigue, cold, and at the same time, mutual support.
The project is implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine. Organizers invite museums, universities, galleries, cultural centers, and responsible businesses worldwide to join the initiative — through hosting the exhibition, providing informational support, or contributing donations.