A Kyiv Artist, 82, Lives on a $190 Monthly Pension and Struggles to Get By

The Life and Art of Liudmyla Holota

According to Главком: Liudmyla Holota, an 82-year-old painter from Kyiv, has revealed that her monthly pension amounts to roughly 7,000 hryvnias (about $190), forcing her to live in difficult circumstances. 'I don't know what a comfortable life is. I'm just surviving,' she said. To supplement her income, Holota tries to sell her artwork. Her story was brought to light by the Ukrainian outlet Glavcom, citing blogger Anhelina Pychyk.

Born in 1943 in Przhevalsk, Kyrgyzstan, Holota has lived in Kyiv since 1951. Her father was a trained engineer, and both her parents studied at a shipbuilding institute. She graduated from the Kyiv Art Institute. Her husband, Adam Kravavych, is a well-known painter and educator.

Notable Works by Liudmyla Holota

Among Holota's paintings are:

• Ukrainian Folk Dumas (1967)
• Women's Portraits (1970)
• Autumn Landscapes (1975)
• Vinnytsia Landscapes (1983)
• Sedniv. Spring (1984)
• Still Lifes (2000-2005)

She noted that 'relatives help a little. I live very modestly. In the morning, I take maybe 100 or 150 hryvnias, and I have to make that last.'

After a video about Holota circulated online, Ukrainians began reaching out to offer collaboration and inquire about purchasing her paintings. Singer KOLA also asked, 'Where can I buy this lady's paintings?' Social media has been filled with calls to support the artist: 'Please ask people like this how you can buy their paintings or otherwise help them. There are many of us, and we genuinely want to assist such individuals.'

Despite her hardships, Holota remains active in her craft. Her works are noted for their depth and sensitivity, drawing admiration from art lovers.

She is a wonderful, intelligent, and refined lady. I really like her.

Holota's situation highlights critical social issues around supporting aging artists with limited financial resources. Drawing attention to her work through social media could be a key step in improving her living conditions and securing recognition for her art. Community engagement and backing for talented creators can positively impact not only individual artists but also the broader cultural landscape of the country.