**Ukrainian Community Outraged Over Russian Designer’s Claim**
A controversy has erupted in Ukraine over a font created by Russian designer Alexander Shimanov. The font, called ST-Surzhik, is claimed to be inspired by the work of Heorhii Narbut, a celebrated Ukrainian graphic artist.
Shimanov says that Narbut was a “great Russian artist” and that his legacy should not be handed over exclusively to Ukrainian nationalists. However, this claim has been met with widespread criticism from the Ukrainian community, who accuse Shimanov of cultural appropriation and colonialism.
**Heorhii Narbut: A Pioneer of Ukrainian Typography**
Heorhii Narbut was a groundbreaking graphic artist whose work laid the foundation for Ukraine’s modern visual identity. He created Ukraine’s first state symbols, including the coat of arms, banknotes, and postage stamps. His most celebrated work is the Ukrainian alphabet, published in 1917.
Narbut’s legacy is significant in Ukraine, where he is considered a pioneer of Ukrainian typography. However, Shimanov claims that Narbut’s work has Russian origins and that his Kyiv heritage is less significant than his time in St. Petersburg.
**ST-Surzhik Font Excludes Ukrainian**
The ST-Surzhik font supports several languages, including Russian, but excludes Ukrainian. Critics argue that this exclusion is emblematic of a broader effort to undermine Ukrainian identity and achievements.
**Ukrainian Analysts Criticize Shimanov’s Claims**
Ukrainian analysts and media outlets have criticized Shimanov’s claims, framing them as part of a larger pattern of Russian cultural appropriation. They argue that such narratives aim to deny Ukrainians their distinct identity.
“The claim that Narbut’s Kyiv period is less important than his activities in St. Petersburg exemplifies an effort to downplay Ukrainian achievements,” says Aliona Malichenko with Behind the News.
**A Tool of Cultural Influence**
Specialists in typography and cultural heritage have highlighted the significance of typography and fonts as tools of cultural influence. They argue that appropriating Ukrainian cultural heritage, such as Narbut’s work, is a tool of “visual occupation” that undermines Ukrainian identity.
The debate over Narbut’s heritage underscores the broader struggle for recognition and preservation of Ukrainian identity in the face of ongoing cultural and political challenges.
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