Ukraine refugees' 'stories of hope' at exhibition

Nine-year-old Luka and his sister Kvitka, 14, showcased their musical and acting talents at the opening of the exhibition

An art exhibition showcasing the "hopes and dreams" of Ukrainian children has opened.

"Faces of the Ukrainian Dream" at Northampton Central Library features drawings and stories created by children who have been affected by the Russian invasion of their country.

It was organised by the Northampton branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain as part of an international project to highlight stories of "loss, courage and hope".

Solomiia Blaghitko, one of the event organisers, said the display, which included a film was "all about the children".

'I miss my friends'

The opening of the exhibition showcased the musical talents of 14-year-old Kvitka, who sang two songs "related to Ukrainian children".

"The second song I sang is called Bird of Prey and it's about freedom and life," she said.

"I didn't get the life that I wanted, because before the war I had everything. I had amazing friends, my favourite school and my lovely home.

"But after the war started, I was forced to move to a different country, I lost contact with all my friends, and I just miss my home.

"In the future, I just want to go home, see my friends, be with my dog, be with my family and just enjoy my life."

The exhibition features drawings and letters created by Ukrainian children to share their stories of "hope"

Kvitka's younger brother Luka, nine, has starred in a movie called Ivanko's Childhood which is being screened, and said it was "super fun" to be a part of it.

"There was a lot of nice people; I made a lot of friends and it was just awesome," he said.

"It's really cool to see people watch my film and congratulate me after; I just want to say 'follow your dreams'."

Ms Blaghitko added: "The main thing we want to present here is drawings from Ukrainian children, because now every Ukrainian child is a child of war, unfortunately.

"They describe their dreams, hopes and feelings; these children are very honoured to present this exhibition [thousands of kilometres] from their homes."

The exhibition opening coincided with World Children's Day and it runs until Monday, 24 November.

The exhibition opening featured musical performances, a short movie viewing and workshops alongside the artwork display