MOMS

The Shevchenko Museum is proud to present MOMS, a solo exhibition of new works by Ukrainian-Canadian artist Nataliia Petrenko-Litvinova, opening at 6 p.m. on November 18, 2026.

This deeply personal series, rich in symbolism, explores the themes of motherhood, migration, and the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world. The MOMS series is allegorical; the theme of motherhood is explored through images of animals living in the Canadian wilderness. The animals seem to gaze at us from the paintings, vulnerable, open, and completely defenseless in the face of human actions.

The series touches on complex themes, including the often untold losses suffered by animals during wars initiated by humans. Through the lens of motherhood, Nataliia's work speaks to resilience, tenderness, and the instinctive need to protect life, whether human or animal, in times of upheaval.

Nataliia arrived in Canada with her child in 2022, fleeing the war in Ukraine; consequently, this subject matter holds deep personal significance for her.