Written by Author and Curator of the “Aesthetic Intelligence” Project
Tetiana Doroshenko is an art researcher, cultural studies specialist, and promoter of Ukrainian cultural thinking. As a U-Woman Ambassador, she works with themes of aesthetics, sensory experience, and the understanding of art during wartime. We spoke with Tetiana about her journey, motivation, and the “Aesthetic Intelligence” project.
How was the “Aesthetic Intelligence” project created?
I studied Cultural Studies at the National Academy of Culture and Arts Management, which is located on the territory of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. During my studies — both in classes and after them — we regularly visited exhibitions, presentations, cultural events, and various art activities.
Over time, especially during the war, I realized that there was a strong lack of one common space where up-to-date information about exhibitions in museums and galleries could be found. That was how my Telegram channel appeared, which later received the name “Aesthetic Intelligence.”
Today, I publish information there about cultural events in Kyiv and sometimes in other cities — if they are truly important. I also promote Ukrainian and international art and give my own lectures about artists, the context of their work, and their sources of inspiration. However, my main focus has always remained cultural studies.
What motivates you to continue researching and promoting culture?
What started as studies in a master’s program in Cultural Studies gradually became both a hobby and a profession. I am constantly learning — my friends joke that I am an “eternal student,” even if not always officially.
I am deeply motivated by contemporary Ukrainian artists and curators. They see the war and our difficult reality from very different perspectives — through color, line, form, curves, surfaces, and textures. When you look at their works, the first thing you want is to feel.
At the same time, your mind starts searching for parallels with other artists, while emotionally you experience every line and every depth of color. This process of “decoding” gives me energy to continue my research as a cultural studies specialist, while also remaining a human being who lives in time and space. Because time is something we experience, not something we simply exist in.
Where do you most often find inspiration?
In people. It does not matter who they are — ancient Greek philosophers who lived hundreds of years ago, Renaissance humanists, or my contemporaries. I am inspired by all those who lived, thought, felt, suffered, cried, and empathized.
I read philosophers and cultural theorists — this is one source of inspiration. I also communicate with contemporary Ukrainian artists, art critics, cultural researchers, and philosophers — and this is another, very lively and powerful exchange.
Were there moments when you wanted to stop?
Honestly, I do not remember such moments. I stopped only when I needed to refill myself — with information, meaning, and motivation. Because when you give a lot, you must also find a place to restore your inner resources.
Why did you decide to support U-Woman?
I am constantly in contact with Ukrainian women artists who create incredibly powerful works — works that cannot be fully described with words. These artworks contain many lived experiences, and they need to be seen and felt.
When I was invited to become a U-Woman Ambassador, I agreed immediately. Communication between authors and creators, and the creation of a shared creative and cultural space, are extremely important to me. This is essential for preserving our national identity.
What is the main message you want to share through your work?
My message is very close to the words of Kuzma Skryabin, who, unfortunately, is no longer with us. He once said:
“Be yourself, read books, watch good movies, watch bad movies so you can see the difference — and you will grow inside yourself.”
I believe it is important to read different books — both good and bad. To watch different films and observe different forms of art, even if they feel unclear right now. Because in five or ten years, it may happen that you will feel and understand them.
My main message is this: I wish everyone to discover and feel themselves through art and the creativity of artists.
