Ukrainian design takes center stage in Australia: debut exhibition showcases iInnovative creations

At the FIN gallery in Melbourne, works by Ukrainian designer Victoria Yakusha (Yakusha Design, Faina) were presented for the first time. The exhibition titled "Victoria Yakusha: Foreign Dialogues Vol.2" took place as part of the Design Week from May 29 to June 2, 2024.

Yakusha embodies the concept of "living minimalism." For her works, she chooses natural materials such as clay, wood, wicker, as well as her own material - raw dough called ztista, ready for baking. The dough consists of cellulose, clay, flax fiber, wood shavings, and biopolymer, which naturally decompose and do not harm the environment. The works of the Ukrainian designer combine minimalism, environmental friendliness, and cultural heritage, shared within the Faina team.

According to the designer's concept, the lamps and sconces Soniah (means sunflower) reflect the idea of unity with nature.

"The installation resembles a sunflower field. Flower-lamps remind us that everyone has an inner glow, a beacon of hope and strength that can be discovered by looking deep within oneself, just as sunflowers seek sunlight. The collection symbolizes the life force and light that triumphs over darkness," the team says.

Another sculpture presented at the exhibition is "The Long-Eared One."

"Thanks to its long ears, 'The Long-Eared One' can hear true thoughts and dreams, distinguishing them from the thoughts of others," the team explains.

Victoria Yakusha is a Ukrainian architect and designer working in the direction of "living minimalism." She was recognized as one of the 50 most influential women in design and architecture by Dezeen. The artist founded the architectural studio Yakusha Design, the product design brand Faina, and the Victoria Yakusha Gallery.