A Survivor of Mariupol's Siege Establishes a Ukrainian Cultural Club in Vilnius

Maria Kutniakova: Championing Ukrainian Culture

According to Міністерство соц. політики: Maria Kutniakova, a Ukrainian woman who survived the siege of Mariupol, now lives in Vilnius where she founded the Cult Ukraine cultural club. This organization runs projects and lectures dedicated to promoting Ukrainian culture, folklore, and art. Her work provides a vital cultural lifeline for displaced Ukrainians and helps share their heritage with the world.

A communications manager, journalist, and artist originally from Mariupol, Maria endured 22 days under siege with her family following the full-scale invasion. She witnessed the tragedy of March 16th, when Russian forces destroyed the Mariupol Drama Theater. The next day, her family left the city on foot, beginning a 12-day journey to reach Ukrainian-controlled territory. She has resided in Vilnius since April 2022.

Cultural Initiatives in Vilnius

In Vilnius, Maria and her mother established the Cult Ukraine club, which hosts lectures, film screenings, and art meetings. She also co-organized the 'Together' photo exhibition in Lithuania, featuring Ukrainian photographers. Additionally, Maria created her own photo project, 'Together with a Friend,' focusing on the pets of Ukrainians forced to flee their homes.

Maria realized a shadow theater project titled '11 Lost Heroes,' dedicated to the destroyed architectural monuments of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. She actively collaborates with Ukrainian civic organizations, cultural initiatives, and charitable foundations. Maria participates in events supporting Ukraine, advocates for the interests of Ukrainians abroad, and contributes to charitable fundraising efforts.

Through her activities, Maria Kutniakova makes a significant contribution to promoting Ukrainian culture and supporting her compatriots during a difficult time.

Maria Kutniakova's work in Vilnius underscores the crucial role of cultural support for Ukrainians displaced by war. Founding the Cult Ukraine club offers the Ukrainian community abroad a chance to preserve their identity and strengthen mutual bonds. The cultural projects she initiates not only support Ukrainians but also introduce wider audiences to the richness of Ukrainian heritage, which is especially important given the increased international focus on Ukraine.