“CONTRASTS” by Andriana Matys: After Europe, Back Home
The artist's exhibition became the art component of the International Invest Summit 2025
On July 4-5, 2025, Lviv hosted the International Invest Summit 2025, an event for investors organized by the Ukrainian Center for Analytics and Research (UCAI) in conjunction with the International Investment Office and with the support of Mind. One of the components of the event was an exhibition of works by Lviv artist Andriana Matys.
This year, after a major European tour – including exhibitions in 10 countries, the European Parliament, and the Design Museum of Barcelona – “Contrasts”, a powerful painting series by Ukrainian artist Andriana Matys, has returned to Ukraine. Its symbolic homecoming took place during the International Invest Summit Jazz Business, where the series greeted guests in an unexpected setting: the central hall of Lviv’s Main Railway Station, supported by Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways).
Alongside the series was the thought-provoking installation “Instrument” by visual artist and sculptor Zhanna Kadyrova, part of her series of musical performances. At its core: a pipe organ constructed with parts of Russian rocket shells that fell in the Kyiv region. Though different in form, both works share a common spirit – turning the language of art into a response to war, a means of processing trauma, and a tool for resilience and unity.
The “Contrasts” series consists of diptychs in which one of the two canvases is intentionally damaged – torn, burnt, broken, or even riddled with bullet holes. Through these works, the artist explores the fragile duality of human existence – the constant tension between light and darkness, hope and fear, good and evil.
“When we try to live in a world where only one force – good – exists, the sudden appearance of its opposite shocks and deeply wounds us. We are simply not prepared for it, consciously or subconsciously,” says Matys.
“This series grew out of my country’s collective experience of a treacherous war, and also from my own personal journey through this difficult time. These works serve as reminders that no matter how hopeless a moment may seem – it will pass. And what lies ahead are the best days of our lives.”
During its exhibitions across Europe and Ukraine, “Contrasts” resonated deeply with Ukrainians who had been displaced by war. Many of them came to the shows – each carrying their own pain, stories, and strength – and found in the works not only art, but comfort, reflection, and emotional solidarity.
The premiere exhibition was attended by prominent public figures, including Ukraine’s third President Viktor Yushchenko and his wife Kateryna.
Following a year of being displayed in elite galleries and institutions across Europe, the series was brought out into the non-art public space, thanks to the partnership with Ukrzaliznytsia. This bold move allowed 200 thousands of people to encounter the emotional force of art in their daily lives – often spontaneously – and to find a moment of inspiration, peace, and human connection.
“It was an extraordinary experience and the largest exhibition in terms of visitors in my artistic career,” Matys reflects. “I’m deeply grateful for the chance to share my art with such a wide and diverse audience.”
About the Artist
Andriana Matys is a contemporary Ukrainian painter whose expressive abstract works explore deep emotional and philosophical themes. Her artworks are held in private collections in Ukraine, Europe, and the United States – including those of Presidents of Ukraine.
