The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has signed a decree instructing the Cabinet of Ministers to organize festivities to mark the 65th anniversary of the National Prize named after Taras Shevchenko. The relevant document was published by the President’s Office on July 26.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Anniversary Events and Special Publications
According to the decree, a series of events and initiatives are planned to honor the significance of the Shevchenko Prize in the development of Ukrainian culture, literature, art, journalism, and in strengthening national identity and cultural heritage. Among the main events are celebrations involving prize laureates, representatives of the authorities, creative unions, public organizations, cultural figures, scholars, and military personnel.
A special focus will be on the publication of the encyclopedic reference book “Shevchenko Laureates: 1962–2026” and an album of works by laureate artists. Exhibition projects are also planned at the National Museum of Taras Shevchenko and the Shevchenko National Reserve in Kaniv. A commemorative coin will be issued in honor of the anniversary in collaboration with the National Bank of Ukraine, along with a special postage stamp.
New Nominations for the Shevchenko Prize
During his evening address, Volodymyr Zelensky announced the expansion of the prize and the introduction of new nominations. In particular, starting next year, the prize will be awarded in the photography category, which, according to the president, is especially important in wartime for capturing the emotions and efforts of Ukrainians.
“A nomination for curatorial work has also been added, as well as contemporary design, and there is a lot of truly strong Ukrainian graphic design and fonts that deserve special attention. We have also expanded the familiar literary and musical nominations of the Shevchenko Prize. We will also seek a format to thank those of our people who preserve Ukrainian cultural heritage,” he said.
As Zelensky noted, the necessary decisions regarding the implementation of the updated prize format are planned to be made by Ukraine’s Independence Day – August 24.
The National Prize named after Taras Shevchenko remains the highest creative award for significant contributions to the development of culture and art in Ukraine. Established in May 1961, the prize is awarded by the President of Ukraine based on the decision of the National Prize committee. This award can only be received once in a lifetime.