**Ukrainian Artist Marharyta Polovinko Killed on Front Line Defending Her Country**
Marharyta Polovinko, a talented Ukrainian artist, made the ultimate sacrifice for her country in late April. At just 31 years old, she was killed in action while serving as a combat medic in the 2nd Mechanized Battalion of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade.
Polovinko’s journey to enlisting in the Armed Forces of Ukraine began with her passion for art. As a rising star in Ukraine’s contemporary scene, she had already gained recognition for her thought-provoking pieces that explored the lives of marginalized individuals. However, the full-scale war with Russia in 2022 changed everything.
The conflict heavily influenced Polovinko’s approach to art, and she found her voice through creating works that reflected the devastation and chaos caused by the war. Her art became a way for her to process the trauma and find solace in a world that seemed to be spinning out of control.
One of her notable pieces, created with her own blood, depicted a man pointing a gun at a skeleton beneath a barren tree. The stark contrast between life and death served as a raw and visceral reminder of Ukraine’s struggle for survival. By using her own blood, Polovinko transformed herself into a conduit of Ukrainians’ collective pain in the war.
Polovinko’s decision to enlist was not taken lightly. She had been volunteering as a combat medic, rescuing animals, and helping to rebuild homes devastated by shelling. Her commitment to aiding the war effort deepened over time, and she eventually became a drone operator in the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade.
**A Warrior for Life and Freedom**
Those who knew Polovinko described her as a true warrior – for life, for freedom. She was consumed by an overwhelming need to act, to push back against the injustice of Russia’s war unfolding around her. Her loved ones said that she worried about Ukraine falling into a cyclical decline, and she felt it was essential to do something.
Polovinko’s sacrifice will not be forgotten. Her fellow artists and those who knew her will remember not only her artistic talent but also her deep compassion and unwavering dedication to helping others. As fellow artist Katya Buchatska recalled, “She had to act, to stand against the terror.”
The 2nd Mechanized Battalion of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade hailed Polovinko as a true warrior, writing in a eulogy published online that she died “with honor and weapon in hand.” Her death serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Ukrainian artists who choose to fight for their country’s freedom.
**A Legacy of Courage**
Polovinko’s legacy will live on through her art and the inspiration she provided to those around her. As fellow artist Katya Buchatska said, “She had to act… Because Marharyta truly was a warrior – for life, for freedom. The strength, calm, decisiveness, and courage she radiated – that is and was the real beauty of life.”
In these dark April days without Polovinko, her fellow artists and Ukrainians will continue to draw inspiration from her courage and selflessness. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her art will serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience of Ukrainian people in the face of adversity.
**A Final Tribute**
Polovinko’s final tribute comes from her fellow artist Katya Buchatska: “She had to act… Because Marharyta truly was a warrior – for life, for freedom. The strength, calm, decisiveness, and courage she radiated – that is and was the real beauty of life.”
Rest in peace, Marharyta Polovinko.
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