Sunflowers for Ukraine

Dear Friends and Art Lovers,
As spring is on its way, we are reminded of events that- although far away, affect our world. This month, we long to come to the aide of humanity caught in this appalling war in Ukraine
Recently, I recorded in my journal words that express my hopes, despite the darkness:
humanity, kindness, nature, color, spirit, prayer, solidarity, sunflowers, friends, nourish, fight, determination, family, preservation, support, pride, integrity, truth, faith, hope, love, unity, justice, crisis, relief
As the week progressed - my words included resistance, bravery, admiration, persistence…
We have watched to many migrating, traveling with only what they can carry, children, pets. We have watched a brave leader who will not back down.
 
The Sunflower or Helianthus is an apt tribute and national flower for the Ukraine. There are over 80  species of sunflowers symbolizing  positivity, strength, admiration and loyalty.
 
I am joining fundraising efforts to provide relief to Ukrainians.
This week, am auctioning three sunflower paintings on    Instagram and will donate 100% of the proceeds to Ukrainian Refugee Response fund mobilized by ReachGlobal to support Ukrainian refugees. 
If you are not on Instagram and would like to place a bid, please email me at janis@janiscommentz.com  I will close bidding on Wednesday, March 16th at 4 pm PST.
I am willing to ship within the United States, and if you would like a painting mailed to you elsewhere, I ask that you pay the postage.

1Sunshine and Sunflowers, acrylic on board, 18x14

2 Sunflowers in Blue Pitcher, acrylic on board 11X14

3 Sunflowers and Tea, acrylic on board 11X14

​As we watch this crisis unfold, we are reminded that Ukraine has had a sophisticated art culture for centuries – and a vibrant art culture has thrived in recent decades.
Currently, art and museums are not immune to the attack. I am sharing two thorough articles from well-known periodicals (ArtForum and Smithsonian Magazine) reporting what is happening in the Ukraine.

​As Easter approaches – a perfect symbol of rebirth are pysanky,  Ukrainian Easter eggs which are decorated using the wax-resist (batik) method and covered in stunning motifs often taken from Slavic folk art.

Photo source: Smithsonian.  Maria Prymachenko, Our Army, Our Protectors, 1978. Russian forces destroyed a museum which housed dozens of Prymachenko’s paintings.

Photo credit: mymodernmet.com

May we continue to support and pray for the Ukraine and peace.
​I hope this season finds you well.  As usual, I keep busy creating and teaching. 
I have two spring painting workshops coming up and continue to sell cards and stationery at my Etsy Shop, French Press and Mojave Inspiration.   
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