A Legendary Photographic Project for a Noble Cause

The world’s biggest international charitable initiative for Ukrainian children who have lost their limbs due to the Russian-Ukrainian war.

by Tatiana Alexandrova
for ArtReview Magazine

A Legendary Photographic Project for a Noble Cause

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In Ukraine, which is continuously subjected to missile attacks from Russia, a legendary American photographer with Cossack roots, Sergey Melnikoff, a.k.a. MFF, has embarked on an extraordinary mission – to create an unprecedented global project known as “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” This project, on a scale never seen before, is dedicated to raising funds for Ukrainian children who have lost their limbs due to the Russian-Ukrainian war. Melnikoff’s vision transcends borders and brings together iconic figures of world art and geniuses of human civilization to create a landmark photograph that will forever etch itself into the history of Ukraine and the world.

The ambitious project brings together an impressive array of foreign and Ukrainian personalities. World-renowned figures such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Madonna, Elton John, Paul McCartney, Sylvester Stallone, Bill Gates, Gabriela von Habsburg, Sigourney Weaver, Denzel Washington, Sergey Brin, Clint Eastwood, Mark Zuckerberg, Joan Rowling, General Ben Hodges, Morgan Freeman, Jackie Chan, Richard Branson, and many more, in the process of being invited to participate in the costume photoshoot. These international celebrities are joining forces with Ukrainian cultural representatives like Patriarch Filaret, Myroslav Vantukh, Vitali Klitschko, Maria Stef’yuk, Mustafa Dzhemilov, Eugen Stankovich, Supreme Mufti of Ukraine Sheikh Ahmed Tamim, Oksana Bilozir, and among others. In total, 70 distinguished individuals from various fields will take part in the photoshoot, many of them are members of the Board of Trustees of the Soul of Ukraine, an International Charitable Foundation.

The Soul of Ukraine Foundation, formerly led by the esteemed Academician Boris Paton until his passing, collaborates in conjunction with the Rehabilitation Center of Mother Teresa, currently under construction in Albania. This facility will provide essential care and support to Ukrainian children who have experienced limb loss. The oversight and financial backing for this children’s center will be administered by the US-based branch of the aforementioned foundation, known as The Soul of Ukraine Foundation, Inc.

At the heart of “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” lies the creation of a panoramic photograph, a staged masterpiece that will be auctioned at one of the world’s largest global auctions. The funds raised from this auction will be directed to the Rehabilitation Center of Mother Teresa, continuing the noble mission of aiding Ukrainian children in need. Sergey Melnikoff, the driving force behind the project, is no ordinary photographer. A former Soviet political prisoner, he escaped the USSR with his family, obtained American citizenship through a special United Nations decision, and was granted a personal verdict by President Ronald Reagan. His remarkable journey, combined with his unwavering commitment to the greater good, makes him a National Hero of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria and a full chevalier of Ukrainian orders of St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Volodymyr the Great.

Sergey Melnikoff’s impact extends far beyond the realm of photography. He is known for his tireless efforts in personal information warfare against Russia and his contributions to promoting peace and justice. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, has recognized the significance of Melnikoff’s art and its potential to inspire positive change in the world.

“The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” is more than just a photography project; it is a testament to the power of art and humanity to come together for a noble cause. Sergey Melnikoff’s vision, supported by a remarkable ensemble of individuals, symbolizes the unity of the global community in addressing the challenges faced by Ukrainian children affected by war. This project is a shining example of how art, compassion, and philanthropy can change lives and leave an indelible mark on the world.