"This Exhibition of Ukrainian Folk Icons is dedicated to the memory of the late Professor Planton Biletsky"

Volodymyr Belyaew Belanger, an American born in Kyiv, returned after 50 years absence to his native Ukraine in 1991. He began collecting Ukrainian Folk icons to help preserve them for future generations when people will be less preoccupied with daily survival and will be interested in exploring their national heritage.

Unfortunately, at present, Ukrainian museums have no financial means or real interest to pruchase and maintain these simple and charming national folk treasures. Most private collectors do not consider them art worth collecting and these icons are sold at flea markets.

Belanger's collection consists mainly of icons from the Kyiv Region. Saints are not severe but often funny looking--St. Nicolas cross-eyed, St. Barbara wearing her crown side ways like a young army recruit his cap.

One wonders - did the anonymous painter of long ago transmit to us his sense of humor or was it the best effort of his artistic ability?

The Ukrainian peasant of the 19th century had few if any rights and was deprived of real communication with the rest of society, but he had his Saints with whom he could communicate. He could talk with time in good times and in bad times. He could ask them for help and protection. The cult of St. Justinian for example was very popluar among the peasantry. He was the Patron Saint of the newborn who died before baptism and St. Justinian guided this newborn soul to the Gates of Heaven.

Accordikng to the late Platon Biletsky this collection is very valuable. Not in terms of money but as examples of Ukrainian folk culture. Which are waiting for true recognition. We are honored and pleased to share this modest collection of Ukrainian Folk Icons with you. Natalya Romanova, Arthistorian