For July I want to support Ukraine. It's so hard to imagine what the people of this beautiful country are going through. But easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed by something so awful that you only have a theoretical understanding of. I wanted to do what I could to help, even if it was only in a very small way.
As well as portions from all sales going directly to Ukrainian relief, this month and next month I am partnering with all Ukrainian artists. These talented creators are all in safe places and are still taking on freelance work.
I wanted to highlight the rich and unique Ukrainian culture rather than focus on the current attrocities, so I worked closely with the artists to find themes that really resonated with them; concepts that were quintessentially Ukraine. After talking to them, I realised there was so much about Ukraine that I didn't know, so I really enjoyed learning all about their culture and what they were particularly passionate about.
As lovely as it was, there was always this undertone of darkness that layered the conversation. Just knowing the reason why we had connected in the first place was always in my mind. One of the artists sent me a collection of photos that she had taken around the streets of Kyiv; beautiful old buildings, bright coloured brick, trams, trees and daily life. She later told me that most of the buildings in the photos had now been destroyed, which was just devastating to hear.
This month's collection will feature Ukraine's national flower, the sunflower or soniashnyk, a wheat field, the lovely buildings in Kyiv, and a traditional flower crown or vinok.
I hope the collection gives you a little bit on insight into the rich culture of Ukraine and know that you are doing your part in helping this beautiful country.
