LocationsThe finalists of the annual children's art contest, Rescuers through the Eyes of Children, gathered in Minsk, Belarus. Young artists from all over the country showcased their work themed around safety measures and emergency preparedness.
Rescuers Through the Eyes of Children: Inspiring Creativity and Safety Awareness
April 22, 2024
This year, the Contest received support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Belarus. The organization awarded special prizes to three works of art.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
Inspiration behind the Contest
The event organized by the Ministry of Emergencies since 1998 draws attention to the work of first responders whose achievements are often hidden from the public eye. In doing so, it also raises awareness about the basics of safe living, disaster preparedness, and emergencies response through art.
On 5 April, the Youth Palace in Minsk was adorned with the art works of 53 finalists, ranging in age from 7 to 18 years old. The exhibition showcased a diverse range of artwork, including drawings, 3D installations, posters, poetry, and stories, inviting visitors to reflect on public safety.
Safety awareness in the spotlight
Among more than 350 works of art, the UNDP recognized one painting and two installations.
“Black Past, Black Pain”. Aleksandr Guseynov, 12 years old. Zhitkovichi, Gomel region.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
“Do Not Condemn the Forests to Burning”. Vitalina Tumanik, 7 years old. Lyubishchitsy, Brest region.
Photo credit: UNDP in Belarus
“The Ministry of Emergencies Always Saves”. Anna Chupris, 13 years old. Minsk
Photo Credit: UNDP in Belarus
The piece by Aleksandr Guseynov pays tribute to the firefighters that responded to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster. 38 years after the catastrophe, the artwork is a timeless reminder of the devastating impact of technogenic disasters.
One of the youngest artists, Vitalina Tumanik, calls for responsible behavior in forests. In Belarus, human neglect is the leading cause of forest fires. The installation juxtaposes the healthy forest with the burned land, highlighting the environmental cost of fires.
The painting by Anna Chupris focuses on female firefighters. Representing women that excel in demanding and dangerous jobs, the piece encourages young girls to consider careers in fields that were once off-limits.
UNDP's support to the Contest is part of a broader communication strategy aimed at building disaster resilience and preparedness.
The Contest was supported within the Adaptation of the Emergency Response System of the Republic of Belarus to Function in the Adverse Global Epidemiological Situation Related to COVID-19 project, implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Emergencies with funding from the Russian Federation.
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