The “Mental Bridge” pilot project, which connects the industrial heritage of Ukraine and Hungary through innovative digital art, was implemented in several stages, each contributing to its artistic and cultural significance.
1. Initial Planning
Originating as a manifesto to highlight Ukrainian digital artists’ war experiences through new media, the project also aimed to bridge industrial histories of Kyiv and Budapest. This phase involved identifying goals, assembling a core team, and outlining key activities such as exhibitions, residencies, and cultural exchanges. These early steps set the foundation for the project’s artistic and diplomatic impact.
2. Research and Inspiration
The project’s inspiration stemmed from explorations of historical industrial sites in Budapest, including Kőbányai Sörgyár, Csepel Művek, and Millenáris Park, as well as dialogues with figures like Géza Kulcsár and Kammermann Lilla. These experiences revealed shared industrial histories between Kyiv and Budapest, emphasizing their potential for fostering cultural exchange.
3. Collaboration and Partnerships
A significant element was the partnership with the NGO Carbon Art Residence, which is transforming the former Kyiv silk factory into Collider, a cultural audiovisual hub. This collaboration not only ensured logistical support but also created an opportunity to integrate the art of new media into post-industrial spaces.
4. Co-Creation and Artist Selection
Artists played a central role in shaping the project. The process began in March 2024 with the selection of artists for video reflection projects. By May, online meetings and presentations facilitated collaborative development, leading to the creation of work sketches and conceptual frameworks in July. These activities engaged the Kyiv digital artist community in interpreting Hungary’s industrial legacy through video art.
5. Photogrammetry and Video Art Walks
Using photogrammetry, the project captured the environment of Budapest’s historical sites, producing immersive video art walks. This medium allowed for a vivid exploration of the adaptation of post-industrial spaces and the communities formed around them.
6. Exhibition and Community Engagement
The culmination of the project is set for September 2024 with an exhibition in Kyiv, hosted by the Collider project. This event will showcase video art pieces reflecting the Budapest residency, unveiling a shared narrative of industrial heritage and adaptation.
7. Challenges and Adaptation
The ongoing war posed logistical and emotional challenges, from restricted travel options to participants’ emotional strain. These were addressed through hybrid formats, online collaboration, and safety measures, ensuring the project’s continuity and inclusivity.
8. Milestones and Legacy
The timeline reflects key milestones:
- March 2024: Selection of participating artists.
- May 2024: Online meetings and presentations.
- July 2024: Concept development and work sketches.
- September 2024: Exhibition in Kyiv.
The “Mental Bridge” project aspires to create a lasting legacy of cross-border cultural exchange, fostering deeper connections between Ukraine and Hungary through innovative artistic practices.
