By Kara Spence
Special to The Bartlett Express
Oleksandr Andriienko and his family are from Kyiv, Ukraine – ”one of the most beautiful and ancient cities in Europe,” as he describes it. Before Russia’s invasion forced them to flee, he and his wife, Viktoriia, built a life they loved. They had just moved into a new apartment with a stunning city view. They were thriving in their careers – Oleksandr as a theater director, artist, and teacher, and Viktoriia as a leading editor in advertising and publishing. Their children were also flourishing, with their teenage son pursuing his passion for football and their grown daughter beginning her career as a theater and cinema actress.
Tragically, the beautiful life they had built together came to an abrupt halt when war broke out. As they searched for a safe place to go, they learned about a special U.S. program for Ukrainian refugees. After gathering the necessary documents and securing a U.S. sponsor to support their travel, they waited for approval to enter the United States. However, when they sought to leave, many adult men in Ukraine were restricted from traveling due to emergency conscription for men between the ages of 25 and 60. When their application was finally approved, it came with heartbreaking news – Oleksandr would have to stay behind,
separated from his family.
After 10 long months, Oleksandr was finally able to be reunited with Viktoriia and his children.
“When I flew from Chicago to Memphis, my wife, children, and a whole group of American friends met me right in the airport hall,” Oleksandr recalled. “They were holding a Ukrainian flag, flowers, and posters that said: ‘Welcome to the United States!’ It was amazing!”
With the help of World Relief Memphis they have managed to rebuild their lives.
Inspired by visiting colorful murals and the art museums in Memphis his passion with the art community was sparked further. He was able to become a member of the Bartlett Art Association, and he was featured in his first art gallery in the U.S., the WKNO Gallery 1091.
In just over a year, he has completed more than 30 paintings, showcased his work in the WKNO 1091 Gallery, secured an exhibition at St. Francis Hospital-Bartlett, has 5 new works accepted for an exhibit at Memphis Art Salon, and has sold five pieces to private collectors- all while balancing a full-time job to support his family.
