Arts + Solidarity
A benefit art event for the people of Ukraine : Santa Monica, Feb 15th.
The Arts as Connector
February 14th is the day the world celebrates Valentines Day. A day of celebrating the love we have for one another–no matter where in the world we are. Now, something special to celebrate the love for others kicks off in Southen California on February 15th.
For as long as we know, the Arts has been a catalyst for awareness and change. From the “Sun City” Rockers Against Apartheid movement produced by Van Zandt and Arthur Baker and recorded by Artists United Against Apartheid to convey opposition to the South African policy of apartheid, to Woodstock, the No Nukes Concerts to Live Aid, creators worldwide have found ways of utilizing human creativity to create awareness about human suffering, or the need to create change.
Right now, while the corporate news cycle moves on from one scandal or scandal to another (that’s their business model) an information vacuum appears where there once an ongoing story.)
While the struggles and oppression continue in Ukraine and Belarus, we’ve seen little reporting on their struggles.
One group of humanitarian artists have come together to shine the light on helping those who have inflicted from harms way.
Pavuk (Ukrainian for “Spider”) is a collective installation and day-long performance centered on a traditional suspended straw structure symbolizing cosmic balance, protection, and interconnected life.
What’s happening
- Fifteen artists from around the globe will each create one geometric element of the Pavuk and send it to Los Angeles, where the pieces will be assembled into a single monumental installation.
- The exhibition will continuously screen video documentation of the artists making their elements — so visitors can see the distributed, transnational process behind the final work.
- The event takes place and is hosted by 18th Street Arts Center, in Santa Monica, California. Long a home for progressive social change, The 18th Street Arts Center has, since its founding in 1988 been champion and home to the intersection between art and social activism.
According to Performance artist Alina Kalinouskaya, ” For Pavuk, fifteen artists from Ukraine and around the globe will each create one geometric element of the installation. Olena Yara introduced me to artists in Ukraine, from whose portfolios Michael J. Masucci and I selected participants based on our shared visual sensibility.
I also personally selected and contacted local artists in Los Angeles. Because the work involves a traditional Ukrainian craft, I chose artists thoughtfully—based on their biographies, personalities, and visual practices. I am continuing this careful process as I finalize the list of participating artists.”
Why diversity is essential.
“I believe this diversity, and the project’s multidisciplinary nature, creates a sense of unity among us as humans. In addition, Olena shared information about trusted and widely recognized charitable organizations, and I selected the Prytula Foundation because I deeply respect and value the work they do.
Why it matters
Pavuk is presented in solidarity with the people of Ukraine — and as an urgent reminder to U.S. audiences that the humanitarian and political crisis remains ongoing.
- In support of victims of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- In support of individuals facing political repression for protesting the war and invasion.
The big picture
The structure at the center — a traditional Pavuk — represents a worldview where balance and protection emerge through relationship.
This project mirrors that principle: distributed creation → shared assembly → collective witnessing → direct support.
What to anticipate.
- Durational performance: Alina Kalinouskaya will remain suspended in ropes for the entire day — acting as a living axis within the installation.
- Live music: Lali Bell will perform live on guitar throughout the day, including a song composed in dedication to the people of Ukraine.
Where donations go
Visitors will be encouraged to donate directly to the Prytula Foundation, supporting its Emergency Response Program, “Light of Ukrainian Hope” — providing generators to communities where electricity has become a matter of survival.
- Direct donations during the performance support the same emergency program.
- Proceeds from project-related NFTs will also be donated to the program.
Credits
- Curated by: Michael J. Masucci
- Supported by: Yara Agency
