Architecture firm turning Ukrainian helmets into symbols of hope

A Toronto architectural firm is transforming damaged military helmets from Ukraine into works of art and symbols of hope amid the ongoing war.

WZMH Architects hired several Ukrainians who fled when the country was invaded by Russia more than two years ago. Now, part of their focus is helping to rebuild their country.

One of the firm's latest projects is called 'Helmets of Heart.' 

Zenon Radewych, principal at WZMH Architects, says both of his parents are from Ukraine, along with his wife. 

"This initiative is really meant to remind people there is a war going on, and it needs to end," Radewych said. 

The battle-worn helmets — painted by Ukrainian artists — were transported to Canada and will be displayed as part of a silent auction at the Bloor West Ukrainian Festival.

All funds raised will be donated to five non-profit organizations based in Ukraine.

"One of them is a group that supports people who have disabilities from the war, so it's for a great cause and we're really excited about it," Radewych said.

Festival features performances, art

That sentiment will also be shared by many attending the Ukrainian Festival on Bloor West this weekend.

The annual event featuring food, performances and art exhibits also highlights the importance of bringing the community together.

"The purpose is to celebrate our heritage and our culture," said Jurij Klufas, chair of the festival. 

"It's a chance to share what we consider a rich heritage, being in Canada for over 130 years and helping to build Canada."

The festival claims to be North America's largest Ukrainian street festival. It's expected to bring over 1,000,000 visitors including politicians, as well as feature more than 500 artists — including a photography exhibit that showcases portraits of children impacted by the war.

Klufas says people from all backgrounds are welcome, but with the ongoing war, it's especially important for the community to gather.

"Because of the war, there's a different need to be here... We feel that coming together, and standing up for ourselves where we can do that, is important."

Anastasiia Bielohryvtseva is one of the staff members at WZMH Architects, hired after the war began. She tapped into her creative connections in Ukraine to find the artists to paint the helmets.

For her and the team behind Helmets of Heart, these relics of the war also serve as a symbol of hope for the future. 

"This project is not just about helmets, it's not just about art, it's a project about Ukrainians' dreams that can hopefully come true after the war," Bielohryvtseva said.