Dear Members, Sponsors, and Friends,

Warm spring greetings from all of us at the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art! As we welcome this new season, we’re also looking ahead to one of the most anticipated events of the year—the UIMA Benefit Gala on June 21, 2025. In the spirit of celebration and growth, I am excited to highlight some recent milestones and give you a glimpse of what’s to come.

UIMA is deeply honored to have received the Wynn Kramarsky Freedom of Artistic Expression Grant from The Andy Warhol Foundation. This prestigious national recognition affirms UIMA’s cultural impact and strengthens our ability to address global challenges. With this support, we remain steadfast in our mission to preserve and promote Ukrainian and American art—especially in times marked by war, displacement, and cultural suppression. It’s a proud moment for our community and a testament to our shared dedication to artistic and cultural excellence.

This year, we were proud to present the exhibit “Agency: Craft in Chicago from the 1970s–80s and Beyond,” generously supported by the Terra Foundation through Art Design Chicago 2024. The exhibition attracted a wide range of visitors and earned glowing reviews from art critics and publications, enriching conversations around the role of craft in cultural expression and activism.

We are also eagerly awaiting the arrival of two extraordinary paintings by the beloved Ukrainian folk artist Maria Primachenko, which have been graciously loaned to UIMA for two years. This incredible opportunity speaks to UIMA’s growing reputation on both national and international stages.

Looking ahead to the fall, we are thrilled to present Inside Me is a Black Hut, a powerful and timely new exhibition arriving directly from Ukraine. This show will spotlight contemporary Ukrainian artists, offering compelling insights into their resilience, vision, and creativity during these defining times.

As you can see, it’s an exciting time at UIMA. From thought-provoking exhibitions and music concerts to literary presentations and a highly popular distinguished speaker series—there is always something meaningful and engaging happening here.

None of this would be possible without you. Your generosity sustains our vision and fuels everything we do—because without culture, there is no nation. Your support ensures that UIMA remains a vital space where art, history, identity, and community come together and thrive.

We look forward to seeing you soon—especially at the Gala—and thank you, as always, for being part of the UIMA family.

— With heartfelt gratitude,

Motria Melnyk, President