Art and Resistance: The Journey of Gamlet Zinkivskyi in Kharkiv

Art and Resistance: The Story of Gamlet Zinkivskyi

As Ukrainian forces began to reclaim territory and push Russian troops away from the outskirts of Kharkiv in May 2022, one local artist was inspired to join the fight for his beloved city. Gamlet Zinkivskyi, a street artist with a passion for both painting and shooting, was eager to defend his hometown.

Upon enlisting in a volunteer unit dedicated to safeguarding Kharkiv, a vital city in eastern Ukraine, Mr. Zinkivskyi found himself at a crossroads. Vsevolod Kozhemiako, the commander of the volunteer Khartiia battalion, recognized the unique talents of the artist. He urged Zinkivskyi to set aside his weapon and instead wield his paintbrush. “Gamlet, just pick up your paintbrush and go paint in the street,” Kozhemiako advised. “The power of his art is much stronger than him taking a machine gun and assaulting or defending trenches. His art could empower the people defending the city.”

Initially skeptical of this unconventional approach, Mr. Zinkivskyi complied with his commander’s wishes. He donned a bulletproof vest, carefully stashing his painting tools within, and ventured into the bombed-out, desolate streets of Kharkiv to create art amidst the chaos.

One of his most impactful early works emerged on a plywood panel that had been hastily placed over a shattered door at City Hall. The mural depicted Molotov cocktails, a powerful symbol nodding to the makeshift weapons residents were crafting to defend their city. Alongside the imagery, he inscribed the words “Hellish hospitality,” a poignant commentary on the grim reality faced by the citizens.

As Zinkivskyi painted, he began to attract attention. Volunteers and soldiers passing through the streets took notice of his work and offered encouragement. “Gamlet, we love your work — keep going!” they would shout, fueling his resolve and reinforcing the importance of his artistic mission.