Fort Assiniboine Artist filming Poland and Ukraine documentary

FORT ASSINIBOINE – Anna Kuelken, who was awarded the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta 2024 Emerging Artist Award in June, is filming a documentary in Poland and the Ukraine beginning Monday (Oct. 14).

“I'm excited to be part of this project, sharing the grassroots efforts of people on the ground who are helping those in need. Even though Ukraine may seem far away, we're all connected,” said Kuelken.

“I will be joining Patrick Lundeen, who first visited Ukraine in 2017, coming within 5 kilometres of the front lines in Eastern Ukraine to interview civilians and soldiers affected by the war.” 

“Since then, he has returned three more times for extended research and project development.”

“Honoured to be returning to produce this documentary, Patrick is deeply fascinated by the human condition, global politics, and the relationship between people and the environment.”

The documentary will focus on the humanitarian efforts of generous volunteers who have been dedicated to organizing critical supply deliveries to Ukraine since 2022.

The film will provide raw stories of soldiers, people living in the war zone and brave volunteers along the war landscape.

Imagine getting a glimpse of the reality of crossing border checkpoints, how camouflage nets are used to save lives and the ongoing evacuations of the war-torn residents.

"In the midst of a conflict, two filmmakers embark on a humanitarian mission from Edmonton to Warsaw, and eventually into war-torn Ukraine, to capture untold stories of resilience and hope,” said Kuelken.

“Beginning in Edmonton, they follow the journey of a single military bag packed with donations, tracking its path from North America to the front lines of Eastern Ukraine.”

“Along the way, the filmmakers will partner with the Uniters Foundation in Warsaw, documenting the tireless efforts of volunteers and Ukrainian refugees assembling aid, drones, and other critical supplies.”

The importance of this documentary highlights the incredible spirit, strength and humanity that exists in desperate times for these people on the other side of the world every day.

“The volunteers providing aid are giving their time and risking their lives for others, often bypassing slow-moving government systems. We need communities to step up, both in our own backyards and globally, because we truly need each other,” said Kuelken.

“If anyone would like to donate, we urgently need funds for vehicle repairs and warm clothing as winter approaches. For more information or to send e-transfers, please reach out at [email protected].”