Oman Fashion Show at Center of Dispute Over Unauthorized Art Use by Ukrainian Designer

Allegations of Artistic Appropriation

According to Главком: Ukrainian designer Yuliia Katsianova is facing accusations of using an illustration by artist Halyna Nazarenko without permission. The artwork in question was originally created in 2009, but Katsianova allegedly began incorporating it into her designs starting in 2019. This controversy gained prominence when a collection featuring the illustration was presented in Oman in 2024 under the patronage of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador Olha Selykh. This incident highlights the complex challenges of copyright enforcement in the global fashion industry.

The original artist, Halyna Nazarenko, is from the Dnipropetrovsk region. In 2017, she printed the significant design onto a T-shirt. However, according to reports, Yuliia Katsianova started using the illustration in her own products without authorization in 2019 and continued this practice through 2026. Oksana Kosmina, a master of Petrykivka painting, stated that Katsianova showcased items bearing Nazarenko's design at various fashion shows and posed for photographs wearing them.

The Significance of Copyright Protection

Oksana Kosmina further emphasized Halyna Nazarenko's standing as one of the most active and renowned contemporary masters of Petrykivka painting. Nazarenko's portfolio includes dozens of exhibitions, with approximately 25 being solo shows, held in numerous countries worldwide. Her work has been displayed in:

• Ukraine
• France
• Bulgaria
• USA
• Canada
• Georgia
• Belarus
• Kuwait
• Uzbekistan
• China
• Turkmenistan
• Spain
• Greece
• Netherlands

This situation brings the critical issue of ethics in using creative materials to the forefront. The dispute could have serious professional consequences for both parties involved, as it underscores the fundamental importance of respecting artistic copyright.

“This case demonstrates how vital it is for creative professionals to respect each other's copyrights, as it can significantly impact professional reputation and career.” - Oksana Kosmina

The outcome may set a legal and ethical precedent for other designers and artists in Ukraine, potentially fostering greater awareness of intellectual property rights. In an increasingly competitive global art and design market, adherence to ethical standards and respect for authorship are essential for the industry's sustainable development.