Discover the beauty and cultural richness of Gunia Project, a Ukrainian-based fashion and homeware label that is dedicated to preserving Ukrainian crafts and celebrating the country’s cultural heritage. Founded by Natasha Kamenska and Maria Gavryliuk, Gunia Project offers a unique blend of ancient folklore and modern design, creating objects that resonate with audiences both in Ukraine and around the world.

Reviving Ukrainian Artisans Amidst Conflict

When conflict struck Ukraine, Kamenska and Gavryliuk temporarily relocated their business to Berlin. However, they felt a deep sense of responsibility towards their country and the artisans they employed. As they revived Gunia Project, they aimed not only to restore their business but also to uplift the morale of a nation. Gunia Project became a symbol of resilience and unity, as Ukrainians cherished the brand’s accessories and products as pieces of their homeland.

A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Gunia Project’s designs are inspired by Ukraine’s ancient folklore and history, with motifs that hold deep cultural significance. From hand-painted ceramics featuring mythical creatures to trident symbols representing Ukraine’s coat of arms, each piece reflects the country’s rich artistic heritage. Yet, Gunia Project goes beyond traditional aesthetics, creating objects that are modern and globally appealing. The label’s aim is to showcase Ukraine’s place on the global stage, offering unique designs that can find a home in houses worldwide.

Preserving Craftsmanship through Collaboration

Gunia Project actively collaborates with Ukrainian artisans, including ceramicists, metalworkers, glassmakers, and textile artists. By incorporating their skills and techniques into their designs, Gunia Project not only supports local craftsmen but also ensures that traditional crafts are preserved and celebrated. The label’s commitment to craftsmanship is further exemplified by their upcoming coffee-table book dedicated to Ivan Honchar, an artist and ethnographer who documented native folk art and textile traditions. This publication will shine a light on Ukraine’s artistic traditions and the importance of their preservation.

International Recognition and Prominence

Gunia Project’s unique designs have gained international recognition, with the label participating in design fairs and auctions around the world. The I Am U Are design fair and silent auction held in New York City showcased a range of Ukrainian crafts, providing a platform for Ukrainian artists and designers to showcase their work on a global scale. Through such events, Gunia Project aims to raise awareness of Ukrainian culture and creativity, fostering connections between Ukrainian artisans and a global audience.

Gunia Project, with its fusion of tradition and modernity, serves as a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian craftsmanship and the beauty of its cultural heritage. Through their designs, Kamenska and Gavryliuk invite the world to appreciate and cherish the artistic traditions of Ukraine, ensuring that they endure for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Gunia Project?

  Gunia Project is a Ukrainian-based fashion and homeware label founded by Natasha Kamenska and Maria Gavryliuk. It celebrates Ukraine’s ancient folklore and history through its designs, which include ceramics, metalwork, glass, and textiles. The label aims to preserve Ukrainian crafts and cultural heritage while offering modern and globally appealing objects for homes around the world.

• What are some of the traditional crafts represented in Gunia Project’s designs?

  Gunia Project features traditional Ukrainian crafts such as ceramics, metalwork, glasswork, and textiles. These crafts showcase artistic techniques and design motifs inspired by Ukrainian folklore and history. The designs incorporate elements like hand-painted ceramics, trident symbols, and mythical creatures inspired by 16th-century Ukrainian tile work.

• Who is Ivan Honchar and what is his connection to Gunia Project?

  Ivan Honchar was a Ukrainian artist and ethnographer known for documenting native folk art and textile traditions. Gunia Project is producing a coffee-table book dedicated to his journals, which will further explore Ukrainian crafts and cultural heritage. The book aims to highlight the importance of preserving and celebrating Ukraine’s artistic traditions.

• What is the significance of the I Am U Are design fair and silent auction?

  The I Am U Are design fair and silent auction is an event held in New York City that showcases Ukrainian crafts. It provides a platform for Ukrainian artists and designers to exhibit their work internationally. The fair aims to promote Ukrainian craftsmanship, raise awareness of Ukrainian culture and creativity, and foster connections between Ukrainian artisans and a global audience.

• What is the background of Vogue, the publication where the content appeared?

  Vogue is a renowned fashion and lifestyle magazine that covers the latest trends, news, and insights from the fashion industry. It is known for its coverage of global fashion events, designer profiles, and cultural movements. Vogue has a wide readership and is considered a leading authority in the fashion world, providing readers with fashion inspiration, industry updates, and exclusive content.