I have performed on various poetic stages across Kosovo many times as an invited guest. So, when my compatriot Anna Kongedo proposed another such performance, I didn't hesitate for a second — reading poetry in Ukrainian is sacred to me.
My only question was: what is the occasion?
"Book lovers meet regularly at the 'Lavjerr`s' art café," she replied. "Interesting things happen there: performances by poets, writers, musicians, and more. Come along; I hope you’ll enjoy it."
That is how I discovered "Lavjerr`s," a small art café that has come to play a significant role in the social life of Pristina over recent years. The owner, Ms. Nora (Nora Loxha Sahatciu), explained that the venue serves as a gathering spot for writers, singers, and artists. This is why one can often hear academic readings of literary works alongside rock music and songs popular across generations, all while admiring new works by Kosovar painters. It is truly vital that this art café hosts creative debates, literary discussions, and even exchanges of views on global politics.
I must immediately highlight Ms. Nora’s hospitality, the café’s wonderful interior, and the relaxed creative atmosphere, which is accentuated by numerous paintings from local artists. A woman of great creative drive, she has managed to gather not only the youth and the capital’s masters of art but also expats who enthusiastically participate in these events.
Performing for such an audience was a pure pleasure. Furthermore, Ms. Anna suggested that I read poems from my latest collection of translations of Albanian poets. My "assistant" for the performance was the renowned Kosovar artist and professor at the University of Pristina, Luan Daka, who read the poems in their original Albanian. It was then my turn to demonstrate how these verses sound in my Ukrainian translation.
Since the audience was multinational (Albania, USA, Germany, Ukraine), communication in Albanian was facilitated by Luan Daka, while the English translation was provided by my compatriot, Anna Congedo.
I must also recognize this talented woman who essentially hosted the program, leaving only the opening remarks to the owner. Ms. Anna is an exceptionally gifted woman who has mastered eight languages and successfully opened her own business abroad. As it happened, the war disrupted her creative plans, and this talented entrepreneur was forced to seek refuge abroad. Today, Anna is a business consultant and the owner of an art studio where she promotes Ukrainian culture - specifically Petrykivka painting. She feels constant help and support from Liudmyla Makey, who was also forced to leave her homeland but is always ready to lend a hand. Moreover, Anna Congedo is not only an accomplished painter but also plays the piano. For this reason, she has decided to establish an art residency for young talents—a goal I truly believe she will achieve.
These are the people who helped prepare the evening of Albanian-Ukrainian poetry in Pristina. After the literary portion, those present exchanged views on the future of art in the modern world and the ongoing events in Ukraine and the Middle East. Life does not stand still; it moves relentlessly forward in search of peace and harmony. This was the point of consensus for all participants of this "art-crowd."
Finally, a traditional "Book Swap" took place, an exchange of books that owners had finished and brought to the club to recommend to others or to find something new for themselves.
The evening has concluded, and we look forward to new meetings, which I certainly intend to share with you in the near future.
Published based on materials from Facebook page of Volodymyr Martynov