FORMA Remakes Pavilion 13 in Kyiv into a Cultural Beacon
Amy Duong — August 8, 2025 — Art & Design
References: ribbon-int.org
Kyiv studio FORMA has revived Pavilion 13: a 1967 Soviet-era coal-mining exposition hall into a vibrant contemporary art space dubbed the Pavilion of Culture. Led by Iryna Miroshnykova and Oleksii Petrov, the renovation restored the building’s late-modernist character by stripping away layers of past interventions, sealing the facade, replacing windows, and upgrading infrastructure. The layout retains iconic features like the steel-framed glazing, exposed columns, and a spiraling subterranean walkway descending to a coal mine model.
The reopening in June premiered Шубін (SHUBIN), a commissioned installation by Sam Lewitt exploring coal mining memory and the politics of extraction through film, neon signage, and reconstructed display pieces. A parallel Shubin Talks series of screenings and discussions rounded out the launch, positioning Pavilion 13 not only as preserved architecture but as a resilient public forum for cultural discourse in Ukraine.
Image Credit: Vitallii Halanzha
The reopening in June premiered Шубін (SHUBIN), a commissioned installation by Sam Lewitt exploring coal mining memory and the politics of extraction through film, neon signage, and reconstructed display pieces. A parallel Shubin Talks series of screenings and discussions rounded out the launch, positioning Pavilion 13 not only as preserved architecture but as a resilient public forum for cultural discourse in Ukraine.
Image Credit: Vitallii Halanzha
Trend Themes
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Cultural Revitalization of Historic Spaces — Transforming historical and industrial spaces into modern cultural venues provides a dual function of preservation and innovation, attracting a new audience and redefining their significance.
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Integrative Art Installations in Architecture — Utilizing immersive art installations within architectural structures engages visitors through a multisensory experience that connects history with contemporary issues.
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Interactive Public Forums in Art Venues — Creating discussion platforms linked with art exhibitions fosters community engagement and positions venues as dynamic social environments, beyond mere display spaces.
Industry Implications
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Architecture and Restoration — The architectural industry benefits from blending restoration techniques with modern design to rejuvenate significant historical buildings, opening opportunities for cultural and social revitalization.
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Contemporary Art and Exhibition Design — Transformative approaches in exhibition design invite innovative storytelling methods that combine art with historical narratives, enhancing the educational impact of art spaces.
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Cultural Tourism — Revitalized cultural pavilions attract local and international visitors who seek immersive historical and political explorations, boosting the cultural tourism industry.
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