The photographic exhibition "In the Footsteps of Mykhailo Parashchuk," organized to mark the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine's independence, has opened in Plovdiv. The exhibition is dedicated to the remarkable Ukrainian sculptor for whom Bulgaria became a second homeland, and whose mastery left an indelible mark on the country's architectural landscape. The project is based on in-depth research into the artist's archives, undertaken by Ivo Milev, Deputy Director of the National Gallery and curator of the exhibition, together with photographer Stefan N. Shterev. Their research took them from Sofia to cities such as Varna, Burgas, Ruse, Sliven, Kardzhali, Pazardzhik, and Pernik, where they documented the traces of his creative legacy. The exhibition is displayed in the square in front of the Central Post Office in Plovdiv and will be open to visitors until September 18, 2026.

Mykhailo Parashchuk was born in 1876 in Western Ukraine. He received a prestigious art education in Krakow and Vienna, specialized in sculpture in Paris, and gained experience in the studio of the great Auguste Rodin. Later, the artist established his own studio in Munich, taught at the local academy, and lived successively in Lviv and Kyiv. The loss of Ukrainian independence in the summer of 1921 found him in Bulgaria, which he adopted as his second homeland and where he gradually integrated into the local art scene. His excellent knowledge of European styles and the traditions of Austrian and German masters in architectural decoration made him a sought-after partner for prominent Bulgarian architects. Thus, Parashchuk established himself as the founder of architectural sculpture in Bulgaria and succeeded in creating an entire school of his own students.

Parashchuk's work is embedded in some of the most recognizable and iconic buildings in Bulgaria:

  • The Bulgarian National Bank;
  • The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences;
  • The Rectorate of Sofia University;
  • The National Library;
  • The Military Academy;
  • The Palace of Justice.

During the opening, the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Bulgaria, Olesya Ilashchuk, emphasized the sculptor's immense contribution to Bulgaria's cultural heritage and highlighted the strong historical and cultural ties between the two nations. The Embassy of Ukraine expressed its gratitude to the State Archives Agency, curator Ivo Milev, and photographer Stefan N. Shterev for their efforts in realizing the project. Appreciation was also extended to Honorary Consul Eng. Dimitar Georgiev, the Honorary Consulate of Ukraine in Plovdiv, as well as to all partners and guests for their solidarity and support for Ukraine. The story of Parashchuk is a vivid reminder that these connections are not just words, but a reality we can observe on the facades of the buildings we pass by every day.