Mystetskyi Arsenal and Publishing Activities as an Instrument of Cultural Memory in the Context of Martial Law

Abstract

The purpose of the research is to examine the publishing activities of the National Cultural, Art, and Museum Complex Mystetskyi Arsenal as a tool for preserving cultural memory, shaping national identity, and documenting artistic reflections on wartime events. The research methodology the study is based on a comprehensive cultural studies approach, combining historical-methodological, systemic, and analytical methods. Comparative analysis of thematic series and exhibition catalogue series was used, as well as methods of interpreting visual and textual materials to assess their contribution to the preservation and transmission of cultural memory. The novelty of the study lies in the comprehensive analysis of the publishing activities of Mystetskyi Arsenal as an autonomous cultural tool for recording and interpreting Ukrainian artistic experience under conditions of martial law. Conclusions. During the period of martial law, Mystetskyi Arsenal continues its systematic publishing activities, producing bilingual editions for each exhibition project, thereby facilitating cultural communication at both national and international levels. These publications combine analytical texts, exhibition materials, and archival documents, capturing contemporary cultural practices and the artistic context. In wartime, the editions serve to document artistic responses to tragedies, articulating Ukraine’s voice to the world. The bilingual format and distribution of publications to leading institutions contribute to the promotion of Ukrainian art and the preservation of cultural memory. Thus, the publishing activities of the Arsenal function as an effective tool for cultural communication, supporting national identity and shaping a resilient cultural image of Ukraine.