CREATIVE INNOVATIONS IN THE COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUES OF KYIV AT THE END OF THE 20TH – BEGINNING OF THE 21TH CENTURY

Abstract

Abstract. The purpose of this article is to analyse an interesting and problematic phenomenon of Ukrainian contemporary sculpture – the memorial plaque – on selected examples of Kyiv in the 1990s–2020s. The authors of the plaques raise complex issues that are being discussed today: historical memory, artist's responsibility, balance between tradition and experiment, synthesis of arts and materials. The research methods used in this article are generally based on the analytical and comparative method, with an attempt to adapt pre-modern art history practice. Given the low level of development of the relevant topic in Ukrainian science, the priority was given to empirical research, description and analysis of the available samples in Kyiv. The personal professional experience of the author, who took part in the creation of individual works in this genre, was also taken into consideration. Results. The phenomenon of the memorial plaque, which consists of many aspects, namely: historical memory, cultural and cognitive value, synthesis of arts and materials, is considered and analysed on the selected samples. Innovative approaches and techniques in the creation of memorial plaques in recent years have also been studied. The ways and prospects for development are indicated. Conclusions. The plaque is a unique artistic genre in public space that shows us the evolution of its development on individual examples and the great potential for transformation through bold compositional solutions and unusual combinations of sculptural materials. Informative possibilities are expanding using modern sculping approaches. The role of plaques and significance in communication with the surrounding space and the viewer is changing nowadays.