An exhibition titled “Paper Sanctuary: Pragmatism and Poetry for Ukrainian Refugees” is currently being held at the Toyosu campus of the Shibaura Institute of Technology in Tokyo. The exhibition, curated by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, showcases words and photographs from individuals who have been forced to flee due to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
The unique aspect of this exhibition is the use of partitions made from paper and cloth instead of traditional walls. These partitions, designed by Ban, are similar to those used by Ukrainians living in shelters to provide privacy. Ban has installed similar partition systems using paper pipes in shelters located in Poland, Slovakia, and other areas where displaced individuals seek refuge.
It is estimated that over 13 million people have been displaced as a result of Russia’s ongoing aggression. Among them are women, children, and elderly individuals who have had their lives uprooted. Ban’s aim with these partition installations is to create a sense of safety for those seeking shelter.
The words and photographs displayed at the exhibition are statements from people who have taken refuge in these facilities. They express their experiences during evacuation, their longing for their hometowns, and their thoughts on the cruelty of war. Ukrainian poet Svetlana Lavochkina collected these materials through social media platforms with the help of nonprofit organizations associated with Ban.
One statement reads: “Now, in these tragic times, our house has gone deaf, mute and blind.” Another states: ”Neither my son nor my husband are alive… But I can’t live without these letters.” These statements convey the irreplaceable memories and testimonies that cannot be captured through statistics alone.
In addition to personal statements, poems written about the conflict following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 are also exhibited at this event.
Ban hopes that visitors will understand the importance of global peace through this exhibition: “I want visitors to know that without bringing peace to the world there will be no peace in Japan.”
The exhibition will run until October 20th at Shiro Arimoto Memorial Alumni Hall Community Lounge on campus grounds. Admission is free for all attendees.