The paintings, executed in various techniques, reflect Rudolf Mykolaiovych's creative and personal journey, as well as his family and friendly relationships. The canvases depict his relatives – his wife Hanna Dmytrivna, daughter Nina, artist colleagues and friends Mykola Kruglov, Mykola Tkachuk, Vera Burdeniuk, leader of the 'Golden Age' ensemble from the Chernivtsi Teachers' House, and others, as well as various landscapes created during his travels around the Chernivtsi region. The artist's beloved, immortal willows hold a central place in the exhibition.

The exhibition opening began with Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni's musical piece 'Adagio', performed by Honoured Artist of Ukraine, Olena Ursuliak.

The exhibition was presented by the event's moderator, Kateryna Valiavska, Head of the Museum's Scientific and Educational Work Department.

Afterwards, Olena Ursuliak performed 'Call of the Soul' from Sarah Brightman's repertoire for all those present. Rudolf Lekalov greatly enjoyed this song, and it perfectly conveys the artist's inner world, his benevolence, and his heart full of love.

Colleagues and friends shared their memories of Rudolf Lekalov – Yuriy Hushkevych, Head of the Chernivtsi Organisation of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine; journalists Liudmyla Cherniak and Mykhailo Tokariuk; poet Vitaliy Demchenko; Oksana Rotar, Acting Director of the Local History Museum; Mariia Ungurian, Head of the Contemporary History Department of the Local History Museum; and Ms. Liudmyla Tkachuk, daughter of Rudolf Mykolaiovych's close friend, the artist Mykola Tkachuk.

Finally, Rudolf Lekalov's daughter, Liudmyla, addressed everyone with words of gratitude. Together with the artist's granddaughter, Oleksandra, she prepared and provided the paintings to the museum for exhibition.

The exhibition 'My Willow Destiny' will be on display at the Local History Museum until 20 November. Welcome!

Photos by Ihor Molotkin, Kateryna Valiavska