Over the past several weeks, the world has watched as Russian forces invaded Ukraine. Bombs have fallen in cities across the country; civilians have been injured and killed; ordinary citizens have stepped up to defend their homeland; and millions have fled the violence.
Watching from half a world away, it’s hard not to feel helpless and frustrated. But in recent days, artists across the West and beyond have taken it upon themselves to contribute to efforts for peace.
Many have been painting sunflowers—the national flower of Ukraine—and posting those paintings on social media with messages of support and hope for the Ukrainian people. Some have also auctioned their creations, donating the proceeds to organizations that are working to offer humanitarian aid, medical aid, and more.
In support of their efforts, we’ve rounded up a collection of these posts here.
RELATED: Second Chances and the Beauty of Ukraine
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Artists & Makers Joining Together
Southwest Art is part of Golden Peak Media, a community of creatives in a wide range of other art forms, from quilting to knitting to beading. Across all of these communities, artists and makers are coming together for peace. You can read about some of these other initiatives here:
Flower Power: Artists Show Solidarity With #SunflowersForUkraine
Interweave Knitting: Artists for Peace Helping Ukraine
Interweave Jewelry and Beading: Art in a Time of War