U.S. couple donates 2,000 reproductions of historic painting to Kyiv Mohyla students (07/17/05)

U.S. couple donates 2,000 reproductions of historic painting to Kyiv Mohyla students

CHICAGO - A generous gift of 2,000 original reproductions of the famous paintings "Khmelnytsky Entering Kyiv" (36 x 24 inches) by Mykola Ivasiuk, a work painted in 1912, and the self-portrait of Taras Shevcheko (29 x 21) have been donated for the students of the National University of Kyiv Mohyla Academy.

This unusual donation is the gift of Lidia and Myron Bazar, who have been collectors of international works of art for over 35 years.

Their collection ranges from Renaissance to modern art. Their sons continue the family tradition as curators after years of experience, exposure to the world of art and an outstanding education in the field. Lidia Bazar was born in Boryslav, and her husband, Myron, was born in Ternopil.

The idea of making a donation of works of art for the students of Ukraine came to Mr. and Mrs. Bazar while visiting their son Walter and joining the "maidan" organized by the Ukrainian community in Paris at Trokadero Place. Mrs. Bazar joined in the demonstrations as a participant and a speaker.

The family spent long evenings watching French television as events unfolded in Kyiv. Moved by the determination of Ukrainian youth to fight for freedom, the Bazar family visited the cathedrals of France, lighting candles and praying for the ultimate victory of democracy in Ukraine. They firmly believed that their prayers would be answered.

As a sign of appreciation and acknowledgement of the significant role played by the students of Ukraine in the victory of the Orange Revolution, Mr. and Mrs. Bazar were moved to a most generous decision: to donate original copies of two of the most renowned works of Ukrainian art and distribute them to the students of Kyiv Mohyla Academy, because of their leading role in the student protests.

This generous gift will fill the hearts of families in 2,000 Ukrainian homes as a permanent reminder and a symbol of Ukraine's freedom for many generations to come, and as an example of generosity and planned giving.

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