Co-curated by Galt Archives Assistant, Bobbie Fox and Galt Archives Volunteer Intern, Hannah Yuzwa.
Transplanted Sunflowers: The Ukrainian Immigrant Experience in Southern Alberta, 1940s to Present, explores the Ukrainian experience in southern Alberta from the mid-20th century to the early 21st century. This temporary exhibition is inspired by the recent wave of Ukrainian immigration, a direct response to the latest Russian attack on Ukraine commencing in February 2022.
Transplanted Sunflowers examines the lived experience of Ukrainian immigrants in southern Alberta from the 1940s to the present. Each passing decade unfolds a unique tapestry of challenges and achievements for Ukrainians who now consider Lethbridge and its surrounding areas their home. This captivating narrative is brought to life through Galt's archival images, complemented by images from private collections and other heritage institutions. Ukrainian artifacts from Galt's collection further enrich the storytelling, shedding light on the journey of these immigrants.
Nick Koliaska, left, of the Auditing Committee and Alex Palamarchuk Senior, Recording Secretary of the Lethbridge Branch of the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians, presenting a $1000.00 cheque to U. of L. President, Dr. Sam Smith and three Alberta Universities Capital Fund Lethbridge Campaign Chairman, Morley Tanner. Image courtesy the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao'pa (eternal gathering place) 19738199000
The spotlight of the exhibition is centered on the life experiences of four extraordinary individuals and their families, who not only made southern Alberta their home but also left an indelible mark on the region. As was the case for the Gushul family who settled in the Crowsnest Pass and were renowned for their award-winning documentary photography of the area and its people.
Through traditional music, the bilingual combination of Ukrainian and English on the exhibit panels and accompanying programming will highlight aspects of Ukrainian culture that have become part of southern Alberta’s rich cultural tapestry. Accompanied by dynamic programming at the Galt, this immersive experience showcases facets of Ukrainian culture that have seamlessly woven into southern Alberta's vibrant cultural tapestry.
Support Ukraine Rally. The event was organized by the local Ukrainian community in support of Ukraine on February 26, 2022, in front of Lethbridge City Hall. The event was in response to the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation on February 24. Image courtesy the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao'pa (eternal gathering place) 20221019
Beyond celebrating the enduring Ukrainian community in southern Alberta, the Transplanted Sunflowers exhibit hopes to inspire a deeper conversation about the Ukrainian people in Southern Alberta and their ties with Ukraine. The co-curators believe the exhibit will spark a conversation about the impact of the current war on the Ukrainian people, the threat to the Ukrainian way of life and independence and insight into the motivations guiding Ukrainian determination to protect their independence and culture. This exhibit will hopefully find a second life with Lethbridge’s Ethnic Association.