International Positioning of Ukrainian Decorative and Applied Arts through Cultural and Diplomatic Art Projects

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify the role of decorative and applied arts of Ukraine as a tool of cultural diplomacy in the process of forming the international image of the state. Research methodology. In the course of the scientific study, general scientific methods of cognition were used, in particular, analysis, synthesis, generalisation, comparison, systemic and culturological approaches. The scientific novelty lies in proving the thesis that decorative and applied arts continue to perform the function of preserving ethno-cultural codes, while adapting to the global context through the integration of digital technologies, new materials and design solutions. It has been studied that in the theoretical dimension, cultural diplomacy through art is based on the concepts of soft power, public diplomacy and nation branding, forming a platform for positioning Ukraine as a subject of the European cultural space. It has been shown that decorative and applied arts themselves become an effective tool of cultural communication, since they are able to represent national values through universal symbols. The examples of international exhibition projects ‘Amidst Cries from the Rubble’, ‘Beyond Tradition’, ‘Rushnyky: Sacred Ukrainian Textiles’, ‘Mariia Prymachenko: Paintings on Show in London’ are analysed, which confirm the significant potential of Ukrainian folk art in creating a positive cultural image of the state. Conclusions. It is concluded that through the symbolism of the towel, sunflower and Easter egg ornament, Ukraine broadcasts messages of humanism, resilience and spiritual revival to the world, affirming its own identity even in conditions of war. The results of the study show that the current state of decorative and applied arts in Ukraine is characterised by a harmonious combination of tradition and innovation, which is reflected in the synthesis of folk techniques with the latest artistic searches.