Interactive Exhibit 'That Day' Opens in Lviv
An immersive exhibition titled "That Day" has launched in Lviv to honor the 35th anniversary of Ukraine regaining its independence. Originally showcased in Kyiv, this exhibit combines historical artifacts with cutting-edge technology and interactive experiences. It was carefully dismantled, transported, and reconstructed in just 11 days, and will remain open in Lviv until October 11, except on Mondays.
Highlights of the exhibition include:
- The original Independence Flag carried into the Ukrainian Parliament on August 24, 1991, by Vyacheslav Chornovil and a group of people's deputies;
- An interactive chance to raise the flag atop the Verkhovna Rada dome;
- A virtual reality presidential office experience;
- A simulated news broadcast recording studio;
- Karaoke sessions;
- A stroll through a cherry orchard;
- A VR flight over the Kaniv Reservoir;
- A display of awards won by Ukrainians during the ongoing full-scale invasion.
"We could have given up, thinking it wasn’t meant to be. But instead, we chose to do what we had long believed impossible: dismantle a hangar, pack it into 15 containers, transport it, rebuild it, and reopen in just 11 days."
– Yaroslava Hres
The exhibit originally occupied a spacious hangar over 4,000 square meters in Kyiv, but frequent air raid alerts and shelling limited its operation. Moving the exhibition from Kyiv to Lviv required 15 containers. Alongside historical displays, visitors can also see notable trophies such as Oleksandr Usyk’s championship belt, Yaroslav Mahuchikh’s trophy, and the "Eurovision" statuette won by the Kalush Orchestra.
This unique blend of traditional memorabilia and modern technology offers visitors an engaging way to connect with pivotal moments in Ukraine’s history and celebrate its recent achievements.
The Exhibition’s Importance for Ukraine
The arrival of "That Day" in Lviv underscores the critical role of preserving Ukraine’s historical memory and cultural identity amid ongoing challenges. Known as a cultural hub, Lviv provides an ideal environment for projects like this, which draw public attention to Ukraine’s rich heritage. More than just informative, the exhibition encourages active participation in the nation’s story, making it especially meaningful during these turbulent times.
In addition to the immersive experience of the "That Day" exhibition, Lviv recently unveiled another captivating project, the light and sound art installation dedicated to Ivan Vakarchuk. This innovative installation further enriches the cultural landscape of the city, making it a vibrant hub for artistic expression and historical reflection.