Living Through War: Olga Sumska's Personal Account
Olga Sumska, a People's Artist of Ukraine, has opened up about the hardships of living through war, specifically describing how Russian strikes devastated the Lukyanivka market, located just 800 meters from her home. Despite the destruction, the market vendors continue to sell their goods, an act Sumska finds deeply moving. The actress has known these women by name for years and considers them a model of bravery.
“Seeing those vendors still selling goods against the backdrop of the bombed-out Lukyanivka market overwhelms me. To me, they are the very picture of courage – unbroken and indomitable Ukrainians.” – Olga Sumska
Work as a Lifeline: The Importance of Acting for Sumska
Her profession has become a crucial anchor. Sumska emphasizes that work helps her temporarily escape the horrors of war, and creativity gives her strength.
“Thanks to my job, I can at least for a while pull my mind away from the terror around us. Work truly saves me, allowing me to shift focus.” – Olga Sumska
At the start of the full-scale invasion, Sumska remained in Kyiv with her family, taking shelter during air raids. She later traveled to Italy with her daughter for a period but has now returned to the capital and has no plans to leave, despite the constant attacks. She also recalled how costumes tied to her career were destroyed during a strike on the Oleksandr Dovzhenko Film Studio. These events underscore the challenges artists face in wartime, yet Sumska continues to draw inspiration from her work and the resilience of the Ukrainian people.
Her reflections highlight not only personal struggles but also the broader situation in Ukraine, where cultural figures strive to maintain national morale in difficult times. Her admiration for the market vendors’ courage speaks to the endurance of Ukrainians who keep living and working despite the threats. For Sumska, creativity has become both a way to cope and a vital means of sustaining national identity amid war.
Amid the ongoing turmoil, Olga Sumska also embraces her unique style, recently showcasing her fashionable choice of white platform Crocs. This blend of personal expression and resilience reflects how artists maintain their identity even in challenging times. To explore her latest fashion statement, click here.