“The Trident: The Coat of Arms of Ukraine”

My story behind creating the large trident for the Vechornytsia FEST

Introduction

Sometimes a single decision comes about unexpectedly, yet it changes more than one could ever imagine. For me, that decision was to create a large metal trident—the symbol of Ukraine—which I crafted specifically for this Ukrainian festival in our town of Palatine in the United States.

When I found out that they were organizing “Vechornytsi FEST” for Ukraine’s Independence Day, I knew right away that I couldn’t show up empty-handed. On that day, I wanted to do something special for people who, like me, live far from their homeland but remain Ukrainian at heart.

Why the trident?

The trident is more than just a coat of arms. It is the heart and soul of Ukraine, a symbol of strength, freedom, and resilience. For me, it symbolizes both pain and pride: pain because Ukraine is forced to fight for its very existence today, and pride because we have stood our ground and are holding on.

I wanted this symbol to shine here in the U.S., to serve as a sign of our presence, our unity, and our remembrance. I wanted to bring people at least a little joy, to remind them that we are together, even far from home.

How the idea came about

I envisioned a photo area where Ukrainians could gather, take pictures, touch the metal, and feel that it’s not just a structure, but a living energy. I wanted everyone who stood next to the trident to feel pride and warmth—as if Ukraine were right there beside them.

I was inspired by the fact that even in a small American town, you can create a little piece of Ukraine that everyone will notice.

The creation process

I worked in a workshop where iron, fire, and sparks became my tools. It wasn’t just technical work—it was a dialogue with myself. Every weld, every spark from the welding torch reminded me why I do this.

The shape of the trident gradually took form from the metal. At first, it was just a cold frame, but then it came to life in the colors of the flag: yellow and blue, familiar and dear. The shades of blue and yellow seemed to breathe life into the structure, transforming it into a symbol of light.

I added the letters “UA” to the base—to emphasize once again who we are and where we're from.

Symbols

• The blue sky above us—it is our sky, which we cherish and love
• The yellow bottom represents the earth, bread, and life
• Metal — the strength and indomitable spirit of Ukraine
• The fire of welding is both our pain and our purification
• The letters “UA”—a proud symbol of belonging

Festival Day

When the trident was erected at the festival, I saw it among people for the first time. It was a special moment: it seemed as though it had finally become what I had always imagined it to be—a symbol of unity.

People came up, touched it, and took pictures. I saw smiles and even tears in their eyes. Some said “thank you,” while others silently hugged their friends nearby. And then I realized: my work no longer belongs only to me. It belongs to everyone who felt this symbol in their hearts.

My feelings

To me, this trident is more than just a project. It is my response to the pain of war, my way of supporting people who are far from home, and my expression of gratitude to Ukraine.

I am Ukrainian, and no matter where I am, there is always a fire burning in my heart that reminds me: we must share our culture, our strength, and our beauty with the world.

Looking ahead

This is just the beginning. I dream of creating even larger installations and showing the world art born of metal and fire. I want my works to be more than just sculptures; I want them to be symbols—monuments to the love, faith, and strength of the Ukrainian people.

Conclusion

I created this trident for people—for those who came to the festival, for those who thought of Ukraine, and for those who took a photo and carried that warmth in their hearts.

I did this because I am Ukrainian. And as long as I create, Ukraine lives on in my hands.