Ukrainian Virtual Reality Museum gives Kamloopsians ‘terrifying’ look into devastation of Russian invasion

“You’re seeing art from the eyes of a child, from a very young age. You see some of the things that have affected them very deeply, it’s hard not to cry. It’s very impactful,” said Jeanne Olineck, a board member of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.

David Lisoway has been to Ukraine multiple times since 2022 and says the fighting has now become a terrifying part of everyday life.

“When the sirens come off, when missiles are coming in, when the drones are coming in, a lot of people are so used to it. They’ll see what’s happening and they’ll just keep on working. They just have to live their lives. They’re used to the horrors and the missiles and the sounds all night long,” said Lisoway.

The paintings, along with the glasses, show visitors the reality for many of those still living in Ukraine.

“When visitors put on their virtual reality glasses, they can see how it was before and how it is now,” said coordinator Olena Heichenko.

There are displays of bullet casings and other items throughout the exhibit. While many can’t imagine what it’s like to be on the ground, the displays give a picture.

“When I’m seeing it, it’s like being there, and we can only imagine what it would be like to be there, living through this with the bombs going on,” said Olineck.

The fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion is February 24.

by Curtis Goodrum

Ukrainian Virtual Reality Museum gives Kamloopsians ‘terrifying’ look into devastation of Russian invasion

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