Are they just fleeting fun? Or could they be a powerful tool shaping how we see the world? These questions sparked lively discussion at the Memo ART—a creative evening with Ivan Marunych and Olena Shiyan.
Memes are more than entertainment. They’re a unique cultural product. They offer fresh ways to explore complex issues, build communities, and often act as catalysts for change. That’s why they spread so quickly, carrying not just humor but ideas that can influence society. Memes can even help foster media and information literacy.
“We all remember the start of the full-scale invasion. Some memes gave us strength and a sense of unity. But it’s important to stay critical—not all memes reflect reality as it truly is,” said influencer and cultural figure Ivan Marunych. He also urged people to be especially mindful of content that involves quotes.
Project curator Olena Shiyan shared and discussed clips from Battle of Memes—a film whose authors spoke with creators of iconic memes to explore how humor can carry us through the darkest times. In one scene, a Ukrainian diplomat recalls how memes helped draw attention to crucial events, while the founder of a popular meme community explained how memes have real-life impact beyond just social media.
“No matter what happens, Ukrainians always find strength in humor. Maybe that’s our ultimate survival tool,” emphasized Olena Shiyan.
This spring wave of youth-focused educational events by the Souspilnist Foundation proves that memes truly mirror our times. They can be fun, but also a source of support and inspiration—even a way of thinking. So we don’t just laugh—we take a moment to reflect, too.
The project is designed and implemented by the Souspilnist Foundations in cooperation with UNESCO Ukraine and with the support of 在ウクライナ日本国大使館 / Embassy of Japan in Ukraine. The project is part of UNESCO’s broader efforts to support the safety of journalists and freedom of speech in Ukraine.
