“The current news is full of Ukraine and the Ukrainians who claim it as home. However, many people in the world admit they know little of either. The video, made in 2001, provides a glimpse into the people who were struggling at that time for identity in a divided and economically depressed country.

Following her natural curiosity and love of adventure, Hammer went to Ukraine in 2000 to trace her roots and find family members. As with most of her work, Hammer wanted to uncover hidden histories, so she sought out information about anti-Semitism and homophobia among Ukrainians. Hammer discovered that old political, societal and cultural barriers were collapsing but without new ways to replace them.  Fast forward to 2022 and we see ruin, death, renewed poverty, and destruction, but we also see strong people fighting for their country and their future.  There will be many more questions for others to research and art to be made, but we felt it important to show this film now.”

– Florrie Burke, Spouse and Executor of Hammer Estate
Louky Keijsers Koning, Director, Estate of Barbara Hammer