Stepping on Ukrainian Soil

Stepping on Ukrainian Soil

"Stepping on Ukrainian Soil" collection was showcased at Design Miami/Basel 2022, where it was recognized as the Best Curio Show of the Year.

The wool-woven tapestry *Zemlia* (Ukrainian for "earth"), with its rich, layered texture, embodies the essence of chornozem — the fertile, black soil that is the heart of Ukraine. The long, umbilical-like strands cascade to the ground, symbolizing the deep, primal connection that every Ukrainian has with the earth.

The wool-woven tapestry *Zemlia* (Ukrainian for "earth")

Yakusha explains, "For us, the connection to our land is umbilical, vital. It has never been just territory. It is a source of power. When you have this connection to your earth, when you feel your roots in her, there is nothing more powerful".

The technique behind *Zemlia* itself is a piece of living history. *Lizhnykarstvo*, a traditional Ukrainian craft now at risk of extinction, has been passed down through generations in the Carpathian Mountains of Western Ukraine. In *Zemlia*, Yakusha draws on this age-old technique as the foundation, infusing it with her own creative vision. The layers in the tapestry build upon one another like living soil, reflecting the earth's inherent complexity and vitality. Every stitch in the tapestry carries the DNA of generations — a testament to the land's power, history, and spirit.

The collection also features a series of primitive furniture pieces, each hand-sculpted from ZTISTA, a unique material developed by Victoria Yakusha, composed of a signature blend of natural elements. Every piece carries a distinct texture, reflecting the spirit of craftsmanship. The tactile qualities of these works invite a deeper connection, turning each object into more than just furniture.

In line with her vision to create life-affirming, free-spirited designs, Yakusha presents the animistic Volyky benches, named after the Ukrainian word for "freedom." These pieces embody a profound sense of openness, liberation, and vitality in their design. The organic, sculptural forms of the benches evoke the freedom of movement. The name Volyky resonates with the universal desire for freedom, serving as a reminder of Ukraine's deep-rooted spirit of independence and resilience.

The collection also features Duzhyi stools, named after the Ukrainian word meaning "sturdy." Together, the Volyky benches and Duzhyi stools create a unified expression of strength, freedom, and the enduring power of the land.

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