Unveiling of the Monument to Heinrich Semiradsky at Karazin University

30 january 2025 year

To celebrate the 220th anniversary of Karazin University’s founding, a monument to Heinrich Semiradsky, a distinguished Polish artist and university alumnus, was unveiled on January 29. The university’s art gallery is also named in his honor.

Heinrich Semiradsky showed a talent for painting from an early age. He received his initial artistic education at Kharkiv Men’s Gymnasium No. 2, where he attended drawing classes led by Dmytro Bezperchy. In 1860, he enrolled at Kharkiv University’s School of Physics and Mathematics, where he earned a degree in Natural Sciences. Even during his university years, Semiradsky's remarkable artistic talent was recognized — his sketches of plants and insects impressed both his classmates and professors.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Rector Tetyana Kaganovska, Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, Deputy Head of the Kharkiv Regional Military Administration Yevhen Ivanov, Director of the Polish Institute in Kyiv Jarosław Godun, and artists Oleksandr Ridnyi and Anna Ivanova.

"Heinrich Semiradsky's art connects eras. His works have become an inspiration for many artists. The idea of creating this monument emerged long before the full-scale invasion. The war disrupted our plans, but now more than ever, we understand the importance of culture as a source of inspiration and strength in the most challenging times. The unveiling of this monument is a testament to our commitment to preserving the heritage that unites us," said Rector Tetyana Kaganovska.

The monument was created by artists Oleksandr Ridnyi and Anna Ivanova. Representatives of the Republic of Poland, including the Consul General of Poland in Kharkiv, played an active role in bringing this project to life.

We cherish our cultural heritage and honor the memory of great artists.