President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has officially announced the expansion of the Taras Shevchenko National Prize, with architecture now included as a new category, as reported by the official website of the President of Ukraine. This addition marks a significant shift in recognizing the role of urban planning and design in defining modern Ukrainian identity during and after the war.
President Zelenskyy emphasized that this inclusion reflects the diverse creative potential of the Ukrainian people. By adding architecture, the state acknowledges the vital work of creators who are shaping the physical future of the nation. “The Shevchenko Prize must reflect the true weight of our cultural achievements,” the President noted, adding that the prize serves as a symbol of gratitude to everyone who builds, preserves, and promotes Ukraine’s national identity.
The reform of the prize is part of a broader strategy to make the state’s highest cultural award more inclusive. In 2025, categories such as curation, photography, and design were also introduced. These changes are intended to align the award with contemporary global artistic practices while ensuring that the prize remains a prestigious recognition for those who contribute to the nation’s cultural resilience. The Shevchenko Committee continues to work on modernizing its evaluation criteria to support artists who, despite the challenges of the ongoing war, continue to push the boundaries of creative excellence.
As the country looks toward future reconstruction and the preservation of its historical legacy, the inclusion of architecture serves as a strategic move to encourage professional excellence in the field. This decision will undoubtedly inspire architects to integrate tradition with modern functionality, ensuring that Ukraine’s architectural landscape recovers stronger and more vibrant than ever. The prize remains not just an honor for individual achievements, but a foundation for the continued growth of Ukrainian culture on the global stage, proving that even in times of crisis, the spirit of creation remains unbroken.