Ukrainian photographer finds new home and international recognition in North Devon

A Ukrainian photographer who fled the war in her country to begin a new life in North Devon has been chosen to take part in one of the UK’s prestigious international art events.

Now living in Ilfracombe, fine art photographer Olga Vynnyk has had an example of her work selected for the London Art Biennale 2025 at Chelsea Old Town Hall, which will showcase work by 350 artists from more than 60 countries.

Olga’s work ‘A Moment of Eternity’, captured while out with the Ilfracombe Walking Group around Lynton and Lynmouth, will be exhibited from July 16 to 20 alongside museum-quality works including painting, sculpture, photography, installation and mixed media.

‘A Moment of Eternity’ explores themes of time, stillness and resilience, expressed through a poetic and minimalist composition.

Above: ‘A Moment of Eternity’ by Olga Vynnyk

The London Art Biennale is a major event on the contemporary arts calendar and is only held every two years, celebrated by the art world for its high curatorial standards and cultural diversity.

Originally from Kharkiv in Ukraine, Olga, now aged 43 and her daughter, now 11, had no choice but to leave their country in July 2022 as the Russian invasion continued to cause havoc for civilians.

Olga said: “It was a very difficult decision, but all the schools in my city closed and my daughter lost the opportunity to study and socialise with her peers. For her safety and future, I decided to leave.

“I am currently living in North Devon with a sponsor named Fiona — an amazing, kind woman. I am very grateful to her: she took us in, surrounded us with care, and helped us overcome difficulties.

“Thanks to her support, I was able to get back on my feet and return to my work in photography.”

This was made possible in 2023 when she won a grant from the She Did It! project that invited applications from women in North Devon to develop and present their business ideas.

As a winner, she had a professional website created for her at www.olgavynnyk.com and received support to set up her photography business.

Above: Olga Vynnyk has been teaching photography at libraries in Holsworthy and Torrington. Credit: Olgas Vynnyk

Olga is now self-employed and teaches photography classes, as well as participated in the Photography for Wellbeing project taught in local libraries, which has just concluded in Holsworthy and Torrington.

She also volunteers for Trafalgargirls, a large volunteer community in London that supports Ukrainians and Olga teaches photography online via Zoom to Ukrainian women.

Closer to home, she volunteers with the National Trust at Arlington Court and says she is honoured to be part of the team that preserves the cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Olga said: “North Devon has become my second home. The nature here is incredibly beautiful and calming — I thank my lucky stars every day that I ended up in such a stunning place.”