Exhibition "Sergiy Ermakov. The Phenomenon of the Ukrainian Couturier"

The exhibition is organized into two thematic sections across two halls. The first hall features items illustrating the life path and key creative stages of the couturier. The second showcases his works. Serhii Yermakov’s creations are masterpieces of art, each crafted as a unique, one-of-a-kind piece. They are 80% handmade using exquisite natural fabrics, primarily varieties of silk such as satin, duchesse, muslin, and taffeta. The garments are embellished with Chantilly lace, Swarovski crystals, and pearls. Previously, these masterpieces were seen only by a limited circle of fashion connoisseurs during runway shows.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is the "Ukraine" gown, surrounded by a collection of black dresses. Created in 2017, the designer presented the model in this specific combination at Ukrainian Fashion Week in 2019. The "Ukraine" dress is made of yellow duchesse silk and decorated with a pattern embroidered in gold thread. According to the designer, this Baroque ornament symbolizes rebirth. The silhouette depicts a pregnant woman, which the author viewed as a symbol of being filled with dreams for the country's future that must come to fruition. Ukraine is associated with a sunny land, hence the yellow color of the dress. However, it is temporarily surrounded by "black spots." This combination symbolizes the struggle between sun and night, in which, naturally, the light prevails. Serhii Yermakov’s prophetic symbolism instills hope for our victory over darkness.

For most of his life, Serhii Yermakov battled a severe illness that first led to the near-total loss of his sight, later his hearing, and ultimately to his untimely death on January 19, 2021. On June 19, 2022, the talented designer would have celebrated his 50th birthday.

During his lifetime, Serhii Yermakov was considered one of Ukraine’s most exclusive fashion designers. He was, and remains, the only Ukrainian master to work in the tradition of "haute couture." His outfits were worn and are still cherished by Ukrainian stars. His works are precious works of art. Yermakov was invited to showcase his collections in France and the USA; he represented Ukraine in Europe, America, and Africa, and won numerous Ukrainian competitions. At the same time, he remained the world’s only blind fashion designer (The New York Times once published a feature on him titled "Blind Designer Dazzles America"). The couturier sought global recognition not only for his talent but for his homeland. In one interview, he stated: "I don't want to be a great designer in Ukraine; I want to be a great designer from Ukraine."

Visitor Information:

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Ticket office until 5:00 PM).

• Admission: Included with the general museum ticket – 200 UAH (100 UAH for students, schoolchildren, and seniors).

• Inquiries: +38 (044) 278-48-64 or +38 (093) 855-61-16 (Viber, Telegram).