ЦIНА СВОБОДИ - The Price of Freedom

Anastasiia Kucherenko

THE PRICE OF FREEDOM - a visual reflection on the consequences of the Russian war in Ukraine followed by poems of a revivalist of the Ukrainian language and culture, a political oppositionist to the Russian-Soviet government who was killed by the Soviet authorities in the late 80s of the Ukrainian SSR - Vasyl Stus.

Anastasiia Kucherenko

Hi, soon to be Designer:) I am 22 years old with tough life background and I do my artsy, grungy stuff while reflecting on life a little too much. Serious with results, easy going with processes. Wish you luck<3

Where do you see yourself in 20 years?

In twenty years, I see myself as a founder of a design academy in Ukraine, specifically in Kyiv my
hometown. Today I am graduating with a BA in Arts as communication designer, and this is just the beginning of my journey. My dream, life goal is to give and expand. I was thinking about creating a place where young talents can develop their skills, learn essentials and find their own manner and style of creating.
I want my
futufe academy to become a center of creativity and innovation, where every student will feel supported and inspired to realize and reflect on their boldest ideas. Through design and arts, I want to develop Ukrainian culture, showing the world our uniqueness and versatility, which tragically is being ruined and getting stolen today.
I am pretty certain that in twenty years we will see significant changes in the cultural and design environment of Ukraine. I truly believe in the power of giving, in the power of community, and the power of
communication and sharing in order to change the world for the better truly. My goal is to inspire new generations for creativity and development hence they can give out the world even more ideas and more knowledge.

What is a good design for you?

For me, good design is a combination of aesthetics, meaningfulness and functionality. It makes people's lives more convenient and spectacular, evokes emotions, holds history and tells stories. Good design takes into account the needs of users and leaves a lasting impression.

What was the most challenging experience during your studies?

War in my hometown. It is impossibly difficult, traumatizing and depressing to live your life combining two absolutely different worlds in my head. We always affected but our personal lives especially traumas and that’s definitely will be my story.

Who or what inspires you?

Humanity. I am inspired by human nature itself, its beauty and moral complexity. Given the material world in which we live, it is human stories, the desire for the good life, their flexibility and ability to find beauty even in the most difficult circumstances - this is what gives me the strength and motivation to keep going.

How do you approach a new project?

I approach to new projects through a combination of research, inspiration and personal experience for sure. First, I dive into the topic, study the needs and problems to be solved. Then I look for inspiration from the topic like history (my favorite), art, technology and, especially, in people.
And finally, I analyze my personal experience and try to find a unique approach that will combine all these elements into a harmonious and effective project.

What advice would you give to students who just started studying in your programme?

Okay, so my advice to students who have just started to study communication design is to be open to new things and not be afraid of making and learning from own mistakes. Explore, experiment and ask questions. Remember that every mistake is an opportunity for learning and growth.
Be persistent and work on your ideas, even if they seem difficult or out of reach. Communicate with each other, exchange ideas and be inspired by the successes of your colleagues. And most importantly, don't forget to enjoy the creative process, you grow wildly from it.

Have you changed during your studies? How?

Yes, I changed a lot during my studies. I basically grew up:) I became more confident in my abilities, learned to work effectively in a team and find inspiration in everyday things. I also realized how important it is to constantly develop and be open to new ideas and approaches as well as emotionally stay in Harmony with your own well being.

Why did you choose to study in your programme?

I was always curious about designing and approaching, as well as somehow influence society through it. I believe that communication design allows you to combine art and practice, creating solutions for everything around you! This field make me feel like it is possible to change the world around you, making it more clear, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

What are you not going to miss in your studies?

ahahaha, Corona times…Disaster!

How are you going to celebrate your graduation?

with my family! They are coming to visit me and attend my graduation day. Lately, I’m a very family going person. I miss them and care for them like crazy.

Natalia Ruiz Galindo Jimenez de la Cuesta