Osamu Okamura for Ukraine

THE ARCHITECTONIC SYMPOSIUM “reSITE“

Right now, I’m sitting at my computer, finishing the special issue of our architectural magazine ERA21. This time, quite surprisingly for our Central European friends, the magazine is dedicated to the contemporary Ukrainian architectural scene. This August, as I was crossing the Ukrainian border in Uzhorod from Košice, I felt like a genuine explorer and adventurer, exploring the land where the “lions live.” At the same time, I worried that my two-week journey would be a waste of time from the professional perspective and that it would turn into a pleasant vacation. To my great surprise, on my very first evening in Uzhorod I encountered a group of architects-cycloactivists discussing a document with Enrique Penalosa, the Mayor of Bogotá. A few days later, I saw the very progressive Lviv City Council who are working brilliantly with the local community to revitalize the Pidzamche district. In Kyiv, I met young urban planners creatively reflecting on the Maidan events. Last but not least, I also admired the amazing CANactions who organise an urban festival and run a world-class school.

I am definitely not worried now: Ukraine is undoubtedly an amazing country with endless possibilities. 

Thank you all, Valik, Vladimir, Max, Jaryna, Vantyna, Ursi, Vlad, Yuri, Yulia, Sergi, Sergei, Alex, Yegor and many others. I look forward to working with you!

Kyiv 2014