A Rare Opportunity to Own a Piece of Cathedral History While Supporting Ukraine
As part of the Centennial celebrations of St. Volodymyr's Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, our community is honoured to present a truly special fundraising initiative—an exclusive collection of original linocuts created by the late Ukrainian-Canadian artist Vitaliy Lytvyn (1937–2002).
These remarkable works were generously donated by the artist's daughter, Olena Lytvyn, who wished to ensure that her father's artistic legacy remains with the community that inspired it. Through this generous gift, parishioners, art collectors, and supporters of Ukrainian heritage have the opportunity to own a rare piece of the Cathedral's history while contributing to a meaningful cause.
About the Artist
Born in Radyslavka, Ukraine, in 1937, Vitaliy Lytvyn graduated from the Lviv State Institute of Applied and Decorative Art, where he developed his skills as an artist, designer, and printmaker. Before immigrating to Canada in 1980, he worked as an interior and exterior designer while mastering traditional linocutting techniques.
After settling in Mississauga, Ontario, Lytvyn became an active figure in the Ukrainian-Canadian cultural community. His work was exhibited throughout North America, including at the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, where his exhibition Stories from a Travelling Bard: The Kobzar Illustrated celebrated his remarkable artistic interpretation of Ukrainian folklore and history.
His artistic legacy continues to be preserved in museum collections across Canada. One notable example is his 1980 woodcut Christmas Carolers, held in the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, Alberta Branch.
Created in the year he immigrated to Canada, the 30-centimetre print depicts four children singing Christmas carols accompanied by a trumpet-playing angel—a beautiful expression of Ukrainian Christmas traditions and the enduring spirit of cultural heritage.
Deeply committed to preserving Ukrainian culture, Lytvyn also founded an art school in Toronto for Ukrainian-Canadian children, inspiring a new generation to embrace their heritage through art.
A Tribute to the Cathedral
Many members of our community will remember that in 1996, Vitaliy Lytvyn created a limited-edition linocut to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of St. Volodymyr's Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral. The artwork beautifully captures the Cathedral's architectural elegance and spiritual significance, serving as a lasting tribute to generations of faithful who have worshipped within its walls.
Today, only five original prints remain from this limited edition, making them exceptionally rare collectors' pieces. These original works have been entrusted to the Cathedral as part of its Centennial fundraising campaign.
Preserving an Artistic Legacy
Reflecting on her father's gift, Olena Lytvyn shared:
“We believe the best home for these works is within the Cathedral community that inspired their creation. My father worshipped at St. Volodymyr's throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and this Cathedral held a special place in his heart.”
The family hopes these prints will be treasured by parishioners, collectors of Ukrainian art, and future generations who wish to preserve the history of both the Cathedral and the Ukrainian-Canadian community.
The Art of Linocut
Linocut is one of the oldest forms of relief printmaking and has long been an important medium in Ukrainian graphic art. The artist carefully carves an image into a linoleum block, leaving the raised surfaces to receive ink while the carved areas remain blank. The result is a striking black-and-white composition rich in contrast, texture, and expressive detail.
Lytvyn's Cathedral linocut demonstrates both exceptional craftsmanship and a profound emotional connection to the spiritual life of the Ukrainian community in Canada.
A Limited Opportunity
With only five original 1996 linocuts available, this Centennial initiative offers a unique opportunity to own an authentic work by one of Canada's respected Ukrainian artists while preserving an important chapter of our Cathedral's history.
Whether displayed in a home, presented as a distinguished gift, or added to a private art collection, each print represents far more than a work of art—it is a symbol of faith, community, and Ukrainian heritage.
By purchasing one of these rare linocuts, supporters not only help preserve the artistic legacy of Vitaliy Lytvyn but also strengthen the future of our community and stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
Become the owner of a rare piece of our Cathedral's history while supporting Ukrainian art and heritage.
Purchase your original Vitaliy Lytvyn linocut from our Centennial Shop:
