On International Dentists’ Day, February 9, the Central Reading Hall of the Poltava State Medical University (PSMU) hosted the ceremonial opening of a solo painting exhibition, “Stomat-Illusions,” by Artem Nesterenko, a graduate of the Dental Faculty of the Ukrainian Medical Stomatological Academy (now PSMU).
The event brought together university leadership, faculty deans, lecturers, and students, symbolically uniting a professional celebration with art and profound humanity. The exhibition was organized with the support of the PSMU administration and the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry.
Artem Nesterenko is a dentist, writer, poet, and artist—and currently a combat medic with the 147th Separate Artillery Brigade of the Air Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. His watercolor series “Stomat-Illusions” offers a unique artistic interpretation of dental pathologies, emotions, and inner states, seen through the prism of a physician’s professional experience.
Professor Valerii Pokhylko, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and Extracurricular Activities of PSMU, addressed the dental community, emphasizing the vital role dentists play in everyone’s life and thanking them for their dedication:
“Everyone knows toothache, and it is dentists who restore comfort, smiles, and quality of life. We are grateful for your work, resilience, and empathy. Artem Nesterenko is an example of a true professional and a creative personality who finds the strength to create and inspire even during the war.”
Professor Tetiana Petrushanko, Head of the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry, spoke about the importance of creativity in the medical profession:
“Dentistry often attracts extraordinary individuals—people whose profession combines a love for medicine with genuine humanity. Artem is a vivid example. His creativity helps future doctors see the profession in a new way. We sincerely wish Artem a safe and healthy return to our university after our Victory.”
The presentation featured video materials from Artem Nesterenko’s official social media pages, including his video address to future dentists, creating a powerful emotional dialogue with the audience.
Olha Borovyk, Director of the PSMU Library, also addressed attendees, inviting the university community to visit the exhibition and leave feedback for the artist, highlighting the importance of audience response.
Event moderator: Tetiana Rezutina, Leading Librarian, PSMU Library.
About the artist (brief):
Artem Nesterenko was born in Zinkiv and received his higher medical education in Poltava, graduating from the Dental Faculty of UMSA (now PSMU). Alongside his dental practice, he pursues literary and visual art.
In 2022–2023, during the full-scale invasion, he created a poetry collection that evolved into a major art project, “Genuine Power,” featuring original illustrations. Presented at the PSMU Library in April 2025, proceeds from the book were donated to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In summer 2025, Artem became a combat medic.
Today, he presents his new watercolor series “Stomat-Illusions,” merging professional expertise with artistic vision.
The exhibition runs until February 16, 2026.
Everyone is welcome to attend.
