The Metropolitan Cathedral has been chosen to host the sculpture ‘The Need for Freedom’ by prominent contemporary Ukrainian artist, Dmytro Iv.
This striking artwork, which shows the figure of a chained but rising woman, represents Ukraine’s struggle for peace and freedom. Created in 2012 and measuring 7 foot in height, it consists of dozens of steel chains welded together in over four thousand points.
The artwork was previously exhibited in the UK in 2015, when it won a silver award at the prestigious international contemporary art festival ‘Passion for Freedom’.
Current keeper of the statue, Ms Gosia McKane from the Merseyside Polonia, in agreement with the artist and in cooperation with the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain Liverpool Branch, have loaned the powerful artwork to the Cathedral in celebration and recognition of the city’s links with Ukraine.
Cathedral Dean, Canon Anthony O’Brien said, “The sculpture is a striking work that has already attracted a great deal of interest from general visitors to the Cathedral. It is a powerful, visual reminder of peoples struggle and hopes for freedom and justice.
As Liverpool prepares to welcome visitors from across the world for Eurovision, we are honoured to provide a platform for Dmytro Iv ’s work. The sculpture is a poignant and deeply affecting expression of our universal human right for peace and freedom. We proudly display it here in our Unity Chapel, in solidarity with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters.
We hope it offers visitors a chance for a small moment of pause and reflection, alongside the joyful festivities of Eurovision.”
Dmytro Iv said: “Created in 2012, this sculpture anticipated the Revolution of Dignity in 2014 and the subsequent war in Ukraine. Following this exhibition, the sculpture will be put up for auction with the proceeds donated to organisations supporting migrants and orphans in Ukraine”
The Metropolitan Cathedral is open seven days a week between 8am – 6pm. Entrance is free.
