May 18, 2022Children of Ukraine: Art From Inside Bomb Shelters

By Emily Stubbs, Marketing & Communication Coordinator

As the tragic conflict in Ukraine continues, many people in our communities are seeking ways to help. The Rotary Centre for the Arts has been given an incredible opportunity to showcase works of art created by perhaps those most affected by this war, the children of Ukraine. Organized by Kelowna Stands with Ukraine and the RCA, the exhibition is full of drawings and paintings done by 5-12 year olds living inside bomb shelters in Rivne, made specially for the people of Kelowna. Each work illustrates just how vulnerable these children are, while highlighting the importance of creative expression in times of devastation. Oftentimes, art becomes a distraction from the world around us, serving as an outlet of emotion. This is something the children of Ukraine need now more than ever. Their art ranges from inspiring images of Ukrainian cities, to heart-wrenching depictions of injured civilians. 

This exhibition is free to view and is located in the 1st Floor Hallway at the RCA until May 26th. You are able to make a donation as well as purchase the works for $20 each, with all proceeds going towards providing protective and medical gear to those defending Ukraine.

As a cultural centre, the RCA is no stranger to supporting different communities, including the people of Ukraine. In April, the wonderful team at the Dolyna Ukrainian Cultural Society held a sold out Pysanke (Ukrainian Easter eggs) art class led by Diana and Peter Bihun in one of our art studios. We met Diana and Peter back in 2021, when we had the opportunity to work with them as part of Kelowna Culture Days. They showed us how to make delicious pyrohy- (perogi) and vareniki- (fried perogi) during an episode of our Cultural Cuisine Web Series, shot on site in the RCA's prep kitchen. The RCA continues to foster this support for the people of Ukraine with other gestures such as the Ukrainian flag being displayed on the digital reader board outside our building, wearing blue and yellow ribbons to our RCA events, and more.

We’re extremely grateful to the Kelowna Stands with Ukraine society, and very proud to have the chance to present these amazing works of art by Ukrainian children, while raising funds for their safety. For more information on Kelowna Stands with Ukraine, please visit: https://www.kelownastandswithukraine.ca/

https://rotarycentreforthearts.com/events/in-the-galleries/Children-of-Ukraine/
 


Children of Ukraine: Art From Inside Bomb Shelters