Ruslana Lyzhychko

Activist Type

Human Rights

Ruslana Lyzhychko is a Ukrainian singer, composer, politician, and activist. As one of the best selling artists to come out of the former Soviet Union, Ruslana has used her celebrity and songwriting to focus attention various issues including human trafficking, impoverished children, hospitals, climate change, and relief for the Chernobyl tragedy. Ruslana has served as a member of the Ukrainian parliament and was appointed the Goodwill Ambassador of the Ukraine by UNICEF. In 2013 Ruslana was one of the leading figures in the pro-EU Euromaidan protests in opposition to Putin’s interference in Ukrainian affairs. In 2014 she was the recipient of the U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award.

Artwork by

Katie King Rumford

Inspired by the Constructivist and Ukrainian Avant-Garde movements—born out of the chaos and war of the Russian Revolution—art became a conversation starter for social purposes. The use of flat colors and line drawn from the Avant-Garde theater posters of the early 20th century, used social engagement to highlight contemporary issues, much like Ruslana’s platform for justice and change.

Ukraine

Capital

Kyiv

Founded

August 24, 1991

Demonym

Ukrainian