The contest, held with the support of the EU Delegation to Ukraine within the framework of the European Maritime Day in My Country 2026 initiative, brought together creative minds to reflect on the blue economy of Mykolaiv — a city whose history, present and future are inextricably linked with water, the sea, and shipbuilding.
During the opening of the event, Artem Vashchylenko, coordinator of Team Europe Mykolaiv, executive director of the UACBC, and chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Maritime Cluster of Ukraine, presented the contest and emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as a tool for popularizing the ideas of the blue economy through art, creativity, and public dialogue.
Guests of the event had the opportunity to view the exhibition of the contest entries, which presented the authors' perspectives on maritime heritage, natural resources, ecosystems, innovations, and prospects for the sustainable development of our city. In their works, through photography, painting, graphics, digital art, video, design, and urban visions, the participants showed how they see the Mykolaiv of the future — open, modern, European, and deeply connected to its maritime identity.
During the event, the winners in various contest categories were awarded, and the official opening of the exhibition took place, which became a platform for creative dialogue, new ideas, and inspiration.
We sincerely congratulate all participants and winners of the contest and thank everyone who joined in bringing vivid, innovative visions of the blue economy to life.
