- November 25, 2024
- 12:27 am
- Ukraine
“Now, even during air raids, children have not just shelter, but a magical place for fantasies and dreams.”
So at the National Children's Specialized Hospital “Okhmatdit” in Kyiv (Ukraine) November 22, 2024 described the discovery updated bomb shelter. The space, previously associated only with anxiety and danger, has become a vibrant art corner thanks to the collaboration of Israeli artists and young patients.
The project was implemented, with the support of the Israeli Embassy in Ukraine, by Israeli artists Regina ShafirCultural Attaché of the Israeli Embassy, and Zoya Severfounder of the Window to the World initiative, which aims to bring art and joy into the lives of Ukrainian children even in the most difficult conditions.
We wrote to “Okhmatdit”: – Russian terrorist attack on Ukraine on July 8, 2024: 38 civilian deaths and 190 wounded are known. The Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kyiv was destroyed. Mourning has been declared in Ukraine.
A shelter that inspires
Previously, the bomb shelter in the department of pediatric endocrinology “Okhmatdit” was a typical gray underground room. Now it has become a place where children can escape from worries and feel comfortable.
- Who created this magic?
The project was led by Israeli artists Regina ShafirCultural Attaché of the Israeli Embassy, and Zoya Severfounder of the Window to the World initiative.
- Project idea:
Turn concrete walls into “windows” to imagination and dreams, so that children can forget about the horrors of war at least for a while.
“The children drew their dreams of peace, safety and joy. Their participation in the creation of these murals was not just a creative process, but also therapy,” noted Zoya Sever.
How art changes life at Okhmatdit
Main achievements of the project
- Creating comfort
The bright murals have made the bomb shelter a place where children feel safe and calm.
- Engaging children creatively
Little patients not only observed, but also actively participated in developing plots and creating drawings on the walls.
- Support from Israel
The project was another step in strengthening friendly ties between Israel and Ukraine.
“We wanted children to see that even in such conditions it is possible to create beauty. This helps them cope with anxiety and inspires them to believe in the best,” said Regina Shafir.
Benefits of art therapy for children
Psychologists note that involving children in the creative process helps reduce stress levels and restore emotional balance. This is especially important in war conditions, when children face danger every day.
How art projects help children:
- Emotional relief. Art distracts from anxious thoughts.
- Building confidence. Children feel that their contribution is important and meaningful.
- Building resilience. Creativity helps cope with negative emotions.
“I never thought that painting on walls could be so much fun. It was fun, and I felt like I was helping to make our shelter better,” shared one of the young participants in the project.
Table: Key projects of the Window to the World initiative
| Location | Authors | Project Description |
|---|---|---|
| “Okhmatdit”, Kyiv | Regina Shafir, Zoya Sever | Murals with children's participation |
| School, Kharkov | Zoya Sever | Peace symbols and bright colors |
| Lyceum, Kyiv | Regina Shafir | Geometric patterns and abstraction |
Israeli Involvement: Connection through Art
This is not the first time that Israel has provided support to Ukraine, especially in humanitarian and cultural projects. The Israeli Embassy actively helps create safe and inspiring spaces for children affected by war.
Key areas of cooperation:
- Humanitarian assistance. Support for Ukrainian hospitals and schools.
- Cultural projects. Art initiatives such as “Window to the World”.
- Educational programs. Development of intercultural exchange for children and adults.
“Such projects are not only help, but also a message: we believe in Ukraine and its future,” representatives of the Israeli Embassy emphasized.
Thanks to the participants
The Okhmatdit Hospital expressed sincere gratitude to the Embassy of Israel, the artists, volunteers and everyone who helped in the implementation of the project.
NAnews – Israel News emphasizes the importance of such initiatives that strengthen friendship between the Israeli and Ukrainian peoples and give hope for a peaceful future.
“You add color to the lives of our little patients. Thank you for the light and warmth that you brought to our walls,” noted representatives of Okhmatdit.
Art as a bridge between peoples
This project is not just a bomb shelter conversion. It is a symbol of how culture and creativity can connect people, inspire and heal.
NAnews – Israel News will continue to talk about similar examples of friendship and support that strengthen ties between Ukraine and Israel.
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