Як не я, то хто? Як не тепер, то коли?

We are Vladyslav Shapiro and Nataliya Proskura, a couple of mathematicians originally from Kyiv, Ukraine. When the full-scale war began, we were living in Boston.

Both of us come from families that deeply value tradition—especially the tradition of dignity and respect for culture. We quickly realized that the world knows far too little about Ukrainian history, heritage, and the beautifully diverse cultural fabric of our homeland.

We felt compelled to share Ukraine’s rich cultural story with those around us in the U.S.—to say thank you in the most meaningful way we could to those who have supported and stood with Ukraine since February 2022. That desire led to the creation of a growing community of like-minded individuals, and the Ukrainian Cultural Initiative was born.

In Ukraine, there’s a well-known saying: “If not me, then who? If not now, then when?” That spirit inspired us to begin assembling a vibrant, wide-ranging collection of Ukrainian art to showcase across the U.S.

From oil paintings and hot enamel on copper to gouache, oil pastels, vytynanka (traditional papercuts), Petrykivka painting, and hand-woven tapestries, we’ve curated what may be one of the most diverse collections of Ukrainian art shown in America. Just as importantly, we are proud to support the resilient artists in Ukraine—those who chose to stay, to continue creating, teaching, and building spaces for healing through art.

Since our first exhibition in 2023, more than 3,000 people have attended our shows. Many artworks have found loving homes throughout the U.S., and every dollar raised goes directly to support Ukraine.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who helps make these exhibitions possible, to every guest who attends, and to each person who has brought a piece of Ukrainian beauty into their life—offering both moral and financial support to the artists behind the work.

At the Ukrainian Cultural Initiative, we are committed to supporting the artists who shape the living heart of Ukrainian culture—understanding culture in its full, multicultural depth, as Ukraine is home to many nationalities.

These artists are the foundation of Ukraine’s future. Through their work, they preserve and evolve our identity.

Our mission includes:

• Educating the public about Ukrainian cultural achievements in visual art, music, literature, and more—through exhibitions, cultural events, and by bringing Ukrainian art into homes and workplaces.
• Highlighting the shared values and connections between Ukrainian and American cultural heritage.
• Supporting art therapy programs for Ukrainian veterans and children.

In today’s world, preserving Ukrainian culture is essential to preserving Ukraine itself as a sovereign nation.

If you're looking for a tangible way to support Ukraine, helping to promote and protect its culture is one of the most impactful things you can do.

The puzzle of world heritage cannot be complete without the Ukrainian piece.

Join us. Invite your friends and colleagues. Discover Ukraine—its culture, traditions, and language. We will visit every American community ready to join this growing movement to celebrate and safeguard Ukrainian heritage.