Shevchenko Prize laureate, artist and designer Andriy Yermolenko is realizing the "Mural of Resistance" project in Odesa — a series of eight murals dedicated to Ukrainian resistance, the Cossack spirit, and the heroism of modern warriors. Each mural not only beautifies the urban landscape but also carries messages of memory and dignity.

The artist is working on a series of patriotic paintings in the open air. Recently, new images depicting the Duke in a hood, a girl behind barbed wire, and others have appeared. Currently, the sixth mural has been created, dedicated to those in the Defense Forces resisting the enemy. All murals are rich with symbols.

According to the author, the spirit of resistance lives in each of us — the spirit of the Cossack who did not submit a century ago. It was from the south, from the Odesa region, that Cossacks set off for Kuban after the destruction of the Sich by the Russian Empire. However, neither the empire nor occupation could destroy the most important thing — the inner strength that burns in the heart of every Ukrainian.

The modern Cossack in the mural is a generalized image of a resistance fighter. He is hooded, without distinct facial features, as anyone of us could become him. Behind him stands a wolf, a symbol of the Special Operations Forces, and nearby is a raven, a wise bird symbolizing partisans. The burning eye of the Cossack remembers every enemy and collaborator.

"We forget nothing and forgive nothing. We are on our land and will never give it up. And we will never turn our backs on those who await us in the occupied territories," Andriy Yermolenko assured.

Resistance — even a blue and yellow ribbon

The background of the mural depicts the sea and the Odesa lighthouse. According to the artist, these symbols are meant to show that many people from southern Ukraine, particularly from Odesa, are participating in the resistance movement. They must be convinced that Ukraine has not forgotten those who are behind the front line. The murals contain images that convey messages to those waiting for liberation, who have not broken under occupation, and who help the Ukrainian army in any possible way.

"Do not forget that even a blue and yellow ribbon on your arm in Russia and in the occupied territories can cost a person their life... I appeal to those who hear me beyond the front line: join the resistance movement, we are waiting for you," Andriy Yermolenko called out.

Why Odesa?

Odesa became a key location for the project not by chance. Odesa is a city that first demonstrated resistance to Russia, noted the artist. He believes that in 2014, here, against the backdrop of attempts to create a so-called "Odesa People's Republic", the people of Odesa decisively repelled the attack and won their first battle for Ukraine.

"Yes, it was a tragedy. But it was a battle. And we won it," Yermolenko emphasizes.

Despite stereotypes, it was 2014 that clearly outlined Odesa's direction. The city has changed. What was once a separate Ukrainian community has now become a Ukrainian-speaking space. Ukrainian is heard in shops, and the mural tells the story of Ukrainian resistance, the artist explains.

"I have met fantastic people. I am impressed by the city, the people, everything that surrounds me," Andriy Yermolenko concluded his reflections.