I AM VOLYA at Coal Drops Yard, London

From March 18 to 22, I AM VOLYA presented a pop-up at Coal Drops Yard, bringing together a curated selection of Ukrainian designers and artisans in the heart of London. The vibrant audience of the area was introduced to the range of contemporary Ukrainian fashion and craft — rooted in cultural tradition, recontexualised through a modern lens.

Alongside the cultural programme, the project also served as a platform for an ongoing fundraiser, dedicated to the 82nd Air Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Contributions from the event are sent toward urgent needs, including vehicle maintenance and essential equipment repairs. You can find more information and contribute here.

The pop-up followed one of the most challenging winters Ukraine has faced since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Continued attacks on energy infrastructure caused regular power outages and heating disruptions across the country. Despite these conditions, Ukrainian designers and artisans sustained their work, adapting production to ongoing limitations.

Their dedication and strength made it possible to present a considered selection of pieces in London, bringing together both new arrivals and established bestsellers. The edit included embroidered garments by Etnodim, Easter ceramics by Gunia Project, hand-knitted pieces by Nyni, and all time favourites - biodegradable candles by Rekava.

The space also featured jewellery pieces from Tsvite Teren and Chego, as well as an offline-exclusive upcycled jackets by LeOntii.

Alongside these, we introduced new brands we’ve recently started working with – Nadiia and Fire Rabbit – marking the beginning of new collaborations we’re excited to grow.

Our pop-up was a part of the Kinoteka Festival, a programme dedicated to Polish and Ukrainian independent cinema.

Throughout the month, the festival brought together a series of events highlighting key cultural moments, with a focus on the traditions, heritage, and creative output of both countries.

Being part of this wider cultural programme gave our pop-up a different energy, and it felt like we were contributing to a larger creative conversation.

We’re incredibly grateful to our amazing partners: Kinoteka Film Festival, Polish Cultural Institute, and Kiosk N1C