The Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts, like so many other organizations across the world, responded to the crisis in Ukraine. From providing space for artists, work bees, fundraisers to a venue to sell goods, ACUA has worked to support the efforts of many artists in their efforts to help Ukraine.
Collectively the efforts of Ukrainian artists, artists, volunteers and ACUA events have raised over $300, 000 to support humanitarian aid and the Ukrainian Military.
Art For Aid – This effort, led by Larysa Eliuk Matchak, involved over 50 artists donating more than 150 pieces of artwork. All proceeds from the sale of the artwork have been donated to the Canada Ukraine Foundation. To date raising over $24, 000 for Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine.
Pysanky for Peace – This unique project, led by Bo Tarasenko, raised over $100,000 for Ukrainian Catholic Social Services. 12 artists transformed 12, 6-foot-tall eggs into magnificent pieces of art. These special Pysanky were sold through an online auction and have found homes across Alberta. The project in Edmonton was sponsored by Kingsway Garden Mall. This project was also held in Calgary.
Stand with Ukraine – Edmonton – In response to a shortage of Ukrainian flags, a group of dedicated Ukrainian Volunteers came to together to sew flags and produce a variety of patriotic items, to sell to raise money to support the Ukrainian Military. The set up their ‘factory’ at ACUA and there are sold at the ACUA Gallery and Boutique.
Barvinok and Alina – Advocacy Through Theatre– Lianna Makuch. Through her work as a play write, actor, and producer Lianna tirelessly continues to raise awareness of the war in Ukraine. Lianna also started and manages a Go Fund Me Campaign raising money to support Ukraine.
The Prime Minister of Canada’s office asked ACUA to host a special art event for displaced children from Ukraine and Afghanistan. This event was led by Larisa Sembaliuk Cheladyn and was enjoyed by all, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who also decorated an Easter egg.
Talisman – Led by Slavka Shulakewych and Joyce Sirski Howell, this community project was a labour of love and hope. Drop-In embroidery sessions were hosted at ACUA where individuals could come and embroider Talisman. These Talismans were collected and sent to the soldiers in Ukraine to carry in their pockets.
Individuals and groups from the Ukrainian and the larger Alberta community continue to approach ACUA for support in their efforts. There are numerous items for sale at the ACUA Boutique, that are being sold to support the efforts in Ukraine.
For more information about the wide range of fundraisers that have been organized by artists, please see the latest edition of the ACUA Vitae magazine available at ACUA.
