Social-Educational Initiative 'The Traveling Book. Ukraine'
The social-educational project 'The Traveling Book. Ukraine' recently unveiled three animated films highlighting Crimean Tatar customs, aiming to introduce Crimea's rich culture to children and youth via edutainment. The new season was launched on September 30, 2026, in Kyiv, followed by an exhibition opening on October 1, 2026, at the 'Vsi. Svoi' space on Khreshchatyk Street. This initiative received support from the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation.
Animation Brings Crimean Tatar Traditions to Life
As part of the project, three animated shorts were created to showcase key elements of Crimean Tatar heritage, including:
- the traditional Crimean Tatar coffee culture;
- the dances Agir Ava and Haytarma;
- the ornamental art known as Ornek.
All three traditions are officially recognized in Ukraine’s National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. During an intimate dinner celebrating Crimean Tatar culture, attendees sampled coffee brewed in a cezve and participated in an Ornek painting workshop. The evening also featured a panel discussion titled 'Culture That Preserves Identity: How Crimean Tatar Traditions Endure.'
Since October 1, the exhibition 'The Traveling Book. Crimean Culture' has been on display at 'Vsi. Svoi,' presenting nine original illustrated posters. The three animated films will premiere on the project's YouTube channel. Project founder Iryna Taranenko emphasized:
“Understanding our culture is a foundation of resilience. This year, we chose to highlight Crimean Tatar culture through everyday rituals, crafts, and cultural codes passed down through generations. Culture lives as long as traditions survive. We want Crimean Tatar heritage to be part of our shared memory.”
The Crimean Tatar coffee tradition symbolizes hospitality, family memory, and daily rituals vital to the community. The dances Agir Ava ('heavy melody') and Haytarma ('repetition') stand as cultural emblems, while Ornek, a distinctive Crimean Tatar ornamental design, conveys wishes, emotions, and cultural narratives. Together, these elements reflect the deep roots of Crimean Tatar culture and underscore the importance of safeguarding it for future generations.
Speaking at the event, participant Mavile Khalil shared:
“Brewing coffee here in Kyiv gives me five minutes in Crimea—it’s my way of returning home, feeling close to loved ones. Even the aroma reminds me of Crimea.”Through this project, 'The Traveling Book. Ukraine' not only promotes Crimean Tatar culture but also strives to preserve it for generations to come.
This initiative represents a significant effort to protect and raise awareness of Crimean Tatar heritage amid contemporary challenges. As the culture and identity of Crimean Tatars require ongoing support, projects like 'The Traveling Book. Ukraine' help maintain their traditions and make them accessible to younger audiences. Engaging youth through animation and interactive events fosters deeper appreciation and respect for Ukraine’s diverse cultural landscape.