The Light of Khreshchatyk and Volodymyrska Hill: The Story Behind the New Sculpture "Seek!"

It is dedicated to energy workers – the people who once gave the city light and still protect it.

How electricity changed Kyiv

At the end of the 19th century, Kyiv received a new lease on life. In 1890, the city's first power plant began operating. It illuminated the City Theatre (now the National Opera), several houses, and 14 streetlights on Khreshchatyk Street. This was the first street to shine in the evening light. That same year, five large lanterns appeared on Volodymyr Hill – a favorite strolling place for Kyiv residents.

This new bronze miniature sculpture is dedicated to this transformation. It was installed near the site where the first power plant operated.

Energy workers have earned the title of "pillars of society" through their work. I am glad to have the opportunity to thank them with a commemorative sculpture, says philanthropist Oleksandr Sagura.

In seven years, the "Shukay!" project by Kyiv manager Yulia Bevzenko has become an integral part of the urban landscape. The miniature sculptures have become landmarks for Kyiv residents and tourists: they are included in tour routes, travel videos, quests, textbooks, and even the Unified State Examination tests.

"Kyiv has so many incredible stories that there's enough to retell for a lifetime. It's important to me that these stories bring people closer to the city and to each other. And maybe together we will create the world's largest story of a big city, told through small sculptures," says Yulia Bevzenko.

Where to look

Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Street, 17/52, facade of the "Leonardo" business center. Sculptor – Yuriy Belyavskyi.