In September 2017, a landmark event for the region took place in Pokrovsk – the first "Skhidnyi Oberih" ethnofestival. The aim of this cultural initiative was to promote traditional Ukrainian culture and its rich heritage among the residents of the Donetsk region and all of Ukraine.

The centrepiece of the festival was the striking canvas "Berehynia", which not only adorned the event's posters but also symbolised the revival and preservation of Ukrainian traditions. A special atmosphere was created by a filmstrip presentation about the painting series "Soul of Ukraine", whose reproductions made a wonderful visual accompaniment to the event.

I was invited to take part in this significant cultural event by Olha Huzii, who is a native of Pokrovsk. Sadly, due to circumstances I was unable to attend the festival in person and enjoy its unique atmosphere, but I am very grateful for the chance to be part of this important cultural initiative.