Chisinau, Moldova, 24 February 2025 – To mark the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and the National Museum of Art of Moldova present FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI by Valeria Duca, an art exhibition which will open on 24 February 2025, at the National Museum of Art in Chisinau. This exhibition offers a space for reflection on the ongoing refugee situation in Moldova and underscores the unity between Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, and the strength of their people.
Since February 2022, more than 6 million people have fled Ukraine, the majority seeking refuge in neighboring countries in Europe. Over 1.9 million Ukrainian refugees crossed into the Republic of Moldova, seeking safety. The country has received the most refugees from Ukraine per capita, of which more than 136,000 refugees have chosen to remain in the country. The FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI art exhibition shines a light on the experiences of displaced individuals and families, as well as the Moldovans who have opened their homes and hearts to them.
The exhibition program features a series of paintings by Valeria Duca, audio pieces, gathered with the support of the National Congress of Ukrainians in Moldova and the Association for Ukrainian Culture and Art “PTASHKA,” and art-based activities by INTERSOS Moldova, along with an interactive installation created by Valeria Duca and Victoria Peev.
Together, these artworks bring to life the stories of refugees and their hosts, offering visitors a space for remembrance, dialogue, healing, and reflection—an opportunity to connect with the collective memory of this moment in history that continues to affect millions of lives every day.
Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova: “Today, three years after the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we reflect on the suffering brought by the war, but also on the incredible courage of Ukrainians. We, in Moldova, have peace thanks to their courage.
The exhibition “FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI” by Valeria Duca translates into art the stories of Moldovan people and Ukrainian refugees, offering a visual testimony of pain, solidarity and humanity. Art has the power to document history, to heal and to remind us how important it is to support each other in the face of suffering.”
Paun Rohovei, the Agreed Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Moldova: „Ukrainians, united, stood up to defend their land, demonstrating incredible courage and determination to the world. Today, more than ever, unity is crucial. And we deeply appreciate everyone who stands with Ukraine.”
Anne-Marie Deutschlander, UNHCR Representative in the Republic of Moldova: “The war in Ukraine is not over. Attacks on towns and people continue; families are still being torn apart, and people are trying to rebuild their lives in exile. However, in the face of this continuing tragedy, Moldova has shown full solidarity with Ukraine and its people, offering safety and support to those forced to flee the war.
This must be a moment not only to reflect but to reaffirm UNHCR’s commitment to protect the rights and well-being of refugees, to support Moldova in its generous efforts and to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, not just today, but for as long as it is needed.”
FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI is curated by Alexandra Mihalaș and Dawit Algerson, who have collaborated to create a space where diverse artistic expressions converge to communicate understanding and reflection.
Featured Artist: Valeria Duca
Moldovan-born, Oslo-based artist Valeria Duca’s work provides an intimate reflection on the refugee situation. Rooted in fragmented realism, her paintings convey the emotional toll of displacement, survival, and hope through muted tones and layered textures. Duca’s art transcends documentation, serving as a bridge between individual stories and collective memory.
As we mark the tragic loss of life and the impact of the war on millions, the exhibition reinforces the need for solidarity, compassion, and peace.
FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI will remain open to the public until March 16, with special activities designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Exhibition Details:
Dates: February 24 – March 16, 2025
Location: The National Museum of Art of Moldova, 31 August 1989 St. 115, Chisinau, Moldova
Entry: Regular Museum ticket fees apply. Complementary activities are free of charge.
For more information: https://www.facebook.com/unhcrmoldova/
FEBRUARIE 2022: ECOURI is organized by UNHCR Moldova and the National Museum of Art of Moldova, at the initiative of the Presidency of the Republic of Moldova, with support from the National Congress of Ukrainians in Moldova, Intersos Moldova, and the Association for Ukrainian Culture and Art “PTASHKA”.
This exhibition is made possible by the generous support of our donors.
For media inquiries, or interview requests, please contact:
Monica Vazquez, [email protected], +373 609 44 339
National Museum of Art of Moldova – [email protected]
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The war in Ukraine, now approaching its third year since the full-scale invasion, continues to devastate lives and communities, with relentless attacks on civilian infrastructure and widespread displacement. Over 10,000 civilians have been killed or injured in the past year alone, and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas remains a stark violation of international humanitarian law. Millions of Ukrainians face daily uncertainty and fear. The security situation remains critical, with Russia intensifying missile, drone, and glide bomb attacks on cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Dnipro. These strikes destroy essential infrastructure, including energy systems, schools, and hospitals, and displace thousands more from frontline regions. The international community must do more to end these violations and provide urgent support to those affected by this ongoing crisis.
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