Arts + Solidarity
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 Steve Van Zandt, Arthur Baker and Danny Schechter to convey opposition to the South African apartheid to, to Woodstock, the No Nukes Concerts Live Aid, No Nukes and many others creators worldwide have found ways of utilizing human creativity to create awareness about human suffering, or the need to create change.”
“In the alternative art world, performance artists have championed the issues of social justice, freedom of expression and human rights. Artists such as the NEA Four, Suzanne Lacey, Barbara T. Smith and so many others have paved a way for today’s current generation of humanitarian arts-based practices.”
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 nflicted 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. This multinational and multigenerational group of artists, curators and organizations, are volunteering their efforts in support of a critically important cause: the survival of the Ukrainian people.
- Additionally, performance artists, including the legendary LA MUDPEOPLE, will activate the installation while accompanied by a durational piece by project creator, Alina Kalinouskaya, who is immobilized, bound by rope in symbolism of the struggles in Ukraine. Singer/songwriter Lali Bell performs throughout the 3-hour durational experience.
- The 3-hour experience will be live-streamed via the Pavuk website.
- 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.
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
