TNMU and the “Signs of Identity” Project Join to Promote Ukrainian Culture Worldwide

On July 14, 2026, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University welcomed renowned artist and public figure Karina Haieva, the initiator of the international art project “Signs of Identity” and Chair of the NGO “Symbols of Identity Art Association.” The visit was aimed at establishing close cooperation and discussing joint initiatives in the field of cultural diplomacy.

During her meeting with TNMU Rector, Professor Petro Likhatskyi, Ms. Haieva presented the achievements of the first stage of the global tour of the “Signs of Identity” international art project. Over the course of 42 days, the project team showcased the unique traditional Ukrainian woodblock textile printing (vybiika) technique in seven countries and eleven cities around the world.

At the heart of the project is the Collection of 21st-Century Printed Ritual Towels (Rushnyky). Rather than viewing it as 30 individual textile pieces, the collection is intended to be perceived as a single, unified work of art. Together, the thirty printed rushnyky tell stories through the language of symbols while revealing a distinctive worldview and the principles that shape the way people interact with the world.

Both parties agreed to combine their efforts to strengthen and promote Ukrainian identity globally, establish close cooperation, and develop communication with institutions in different countries. The next steps will include the signing of a memorandum of cooperation and the creation of a jointly designed vybiika artwork.

The partnership between TNMU and the “Signs of Identity” project promises to become a vivid example of how the academic community can actively contribute to promoting Ukraine and its rich cultural heritage on the international stage.