About the Museum
The East Village was once the home to tens of thousands of Ukrainian immigrants and their descendants. As the city and neighborhood have evolved, the Ukrainian restaurants, cafes, and butchers have closed, leaving just the St. George Ukrainian Church and the outstanding Ukrainian Museum as relics of the former ethnic enclave. The museum is one of the largest institutions outside of Ukraine collecting and showcasing Ukranian art, history, and culture, and one of the finest institutions focused on Eastern European creativity in New York.
What You Will See
The permanent collection of the museum is divided roughly into three categories: Fine Art, Folk Art, and Historical Archives. The Fine Art collection features the works of trained and talented artists of Ukranian descent--both native-born and immigrants. The Folk Art collection focuses on the traditional culture of Ukraine, featuring fascinating examples of textiles, pottery, and religious artifacts. The real draw to the museum, however, is its regular rotation of temporary exhibits, curated to examine in detail various aspects of Ukraine's history and culture.
Why You Should Go
Eastern Europe is generally underrepresented in the collections of New York cultural institutions, beyond Jewish and Immigration museums. The Ukranian Museum may be the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of an Eastern European country in the city. Between its charming Folk Art, impressive Fine Art, and a fascinating menu of rotating exhibitions, there is something to intrigue and inspire each visitor to the museum. Plus, excellent Ukranian dining nearby.
