"We cannot allow ourselves to be in a bad mood because another wounded person comes to us right away. And we must give our smile and jokes to this person."
– Iryna Tsybukh, Ukrainian military medic
This pressure leads to severe mental health deterioration.
The portrait has four hidden layers, each depicting a traumatic memory from Iryna’s frontline experience.
Thе artist, Maksym Skalatskyi, recreated those memories in visuals.
Now, they can only be revealed with professional equipment like an X-ray machine.
Similarly, only using professional help can one truly see and address the suppressed traumas.
In Ukraine, military medics endure as much stress as soldiers but must stay calm and keep smiling, often without access to professional help.
On the surface, she appears to be smiling. However, behind that smile lies a dark secret.
To raise awareness of the issue, we created a portrait of Iryna, a Ukrainian military medic.
Now, they can only be revealed with professional equipment like an X-ray machine.
Similarly, only using professional help can one truly see and address the suppressed traumas.
Layers:
Layer 5
The Portrait
of Iryna
Layer 4
Memory from
Zelene Pole
A harrowing moment when Iryna realized the war's impact extended beyond people.
Layer 3
Memory from
St. Michael’s Cathedral
Iryna's realization of war's harsh reality and her decision to take up a rifle.
Layer 2
Memory from
Serebriansky Forest
A story of Myroslav, a father-to-be, severely injured in battle but determined to live.
Layer 1
Memory from
Selydove
A story contrasting love and death, involving a deceased Ukrainian soldier.
Iryna's voice was recreated with the help of AI, because during the execution of this project, she was tragically killed on the frontline.
About Iryna
Iryna Tsybukh, known as "Cheka," was a member of the Hospitallers volunteer battalion.
She dedicated her life to aiding soldiers and contributing to the Ukrainian resistance.
Iryna also worked on media projects and her own podcast. Her legacy inspires many, embodying courage and dedication.
A year ago, amidst the chaos on the Donetsk frontline, Iryna wrote this letter to her brother, believing she might not survive.
About the Artist
Maksym Skalatskyi is a Ukrainian artist who lives and works in Kyiv.
He was driven by his belief in the power of art as an essential tool, especially in challenging times.
About
Repower
Repower, a Ukrainian NGO, supports the mental health of frontline military medics, doctors, and volunteers.
It aims to prevent PTSD and emotional exhaustion through recovery programs, including psychological sessions, professional exchanges, and cultural activities.
Repower's initiatives, often in collaboration with international partners, provide relief for those affected by the war, supported by donations from businesses and individuals.
The organization strives to support 100 participants each month, building a sustainable mental health care network for Ukraine's defenders.
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