On June 19, 2026, Ukrainian artist Iryna Fedorenko, internationally known as SEMIRA, took part in a meaningful meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, in Munich. During the encounter, the artist presented one of her emotionally powerful artworks, creating a symbolic moment of cultural dialogue and support for Ukraine.
Iryna Fedorenko and Roberta Metsola: A Meaningful Encounter
Roberta Metsola’s visit to Munich coincided with a special event dedicated to Ukraine and its ongoing struggle for freedom and sovereignty. Within this framework, Fedorenko had the opportunity to meet the European Parliament President and personally thank her for her consistent support of the Ukrainian people since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Born in Mariupol and forced to leave Ukraine because of the war, SEMIRA has dedicated much of her artistic and public work to documenting the consequences of conflict and highlighting the resilience of Ukrainians. Her paintings frequently explore themes of memory, loss, hope, and human endurance, transforming personal and national experiences into universal visual narratives.
The meeting in Munich served as both a cultural and humanitarian gesture, emphasizing the role of art in preserving historical memory and strengthening international solidarity.
A Ukrainian Artistic Voice in Europe
Iryna Fedorenko is a Ukrainian artist, curator, and cultural advocate whose work has gained international recognition over the past several years. Having lived and studied in various Ukrainian cities before relocating abroad, she continues to promote Ukrainian culture through exhibitions, charitable initiatives, and collaborative art projects.
Her artistic practice combines expressive portraiture with socially engaged themes. Many of her works focus on the emotional impact of war, particularly on children and civilians whose lives have been transformed by violence and displacement. Through these projects, SEMIRA gives a human face to the statistics and headlines that often dominate discussions about the conflict.
Art, Advocacy, and International Recognition
SEMIRA’s exhibitions have been presented across Ukraine, Europe, the United States, and China, helping bring international attention to Ukrainian experiences during wartime. Her distinctive visual style and emotionally charged compositions have attracted collectors worldwide, while selected works have appeared at contemporary art auctions in London and New York.
In addition to her artistic career, Fedorenko actively supports emerging Ukrainian artists through curatorial projects and international collaborations. Among her recent initiatives is a Ukrainian-Italian cultural project presented during the 2026 Olympic Games.
Today, SEMIRA’s work extends beyond contemporary portraiture. Through art, advocacy, and cultural diplomacy, she continues to share powerful stories of resilience, memory, and hope with audiences around the world.