A painting called ‘Stop The War’ by a nine-year-old Ukrainian boy is among 150 ‘spectacular’ artworks being auctioned to help his country.
Davyd Liashchenko’s powerful painting (estimate £150-£200) depicts a tank with a knot tied in the cannon and the word STOP written above it. It’s part of a Ukraine Art Fundraising Auction featuring paintings and sculptures by Ukrainian artists – some of whom have been fighting for their country. Davyd wants all funds raised from the sale of his painting to aid his country.
The art will go under the hammer on October 10 at London’s Ukrainian Cathedral, led by auctioneer Charles Hanson. All proceeds will go directly to the artists, their art communities and families. One of the artists, Mykola Kmit, is giving all proceeds from the sale of his paintings to aid the rehabilitation of war victims.
Charles, the owner of Hansons Auctioneers which will broadcast the sale live online at www.hansonslive.co.uk, said: “It’s a privilege to bring this art to a global audience and help a nation, and its artists, rise above adversity. This sale will help keep art alive amid the chaos of war.
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“It will offer works by Ukrainian artists for whom it is not only a profession but a vocation. Culture and art recede into the background in wartime. This sale will deliver an important message as Ukraine battles not only for its borders but for its artistic heritage.
“Funds raised will help Ukrainian artists and their families as they combat terrible circumstances. Some participating artists come from the east of Ukraine where their studios, universities, houses and lives have been affected or destroyed. This sale offers an opportunity not only to buy artwork you admire but to support a humanitarian cause.”
The Ukrainian art auction has been organised by the Charitable Foundation named after Voznytskyi and the Ukraine Global Art company, which raise funds for Ukraine and its people. The celebration of Ukrainian creativity aims to demonstrate the “art of indomitability” of the spirit of Ukraine.
The war with Russia, which began in February 2022, has destroyed normal life for millions and caused tens of thousands of deaths on both sides. Ukrainian artists have been caught up in the turmoil but the country has battled hard to keep its culture alive. Ukrainian museums rushed to hide their collections for fear invading Russian troops would steal or destroy the country’s cultural heritage.
David’s desire to help his homeland is an example of the determination of the Ukrainian people. His father remained in the Ukraine, despite the fact he was legally exempt from military service due to having four children care for. He stayed to work and help volunteers assist defenders of the country.
A fierce resilience comes to the fore again thanks to Sviatoslav Vladyka, a 48-year-old artist who is currently fighting on the front lines near Bakhmut. He has two works in for auction. They are painted wooden blocks shaped to create a modern mosaic of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
From the early days of the war, Sviatoslav has defended his country. Away from conflict, he is an important artist and designer. He is Laureate of the State Prize of Ukraine in the field of architecture and founder of the Association of Sacred Art.
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Other participants include Valery Shkarupa with ‘North Wind’, a depiction of the wind in a female form; surrealist Ihor Panchuk with Girl in the Fog and Oleksandr Serdiuk with ‘Feeling’, an abstract expression of love.
A spokesperson for the Charitable Foundation named after Voznytskyi said: “The war in Ukraine has caused great pain to millions of Ukrainians. They were forced to leave their homes and abandon their usual lives and plans. Many of them are now defending their country on the battlefields.
“Some of the artists are among those fighting for Ukrainian freedom. Despite today’s difficult conditions, the cultural life of the country continues to develop. Works of art become an inspiration for gaining independence, a tool for helping those in need.
“Some of the paintings came a long way. The artists had to escape war and move to safer places. Some of them did not know if their art had survived. Paintings were taken out of Ukraine against a backdrop of bullets and bombs. They survived to reach London and we hope people all over the world will appreciate Ukrainian art through this auction.
“The Charitable Foundation named after Voznytskyi and the Ukraine Global Art company consider it important to introduce Ukrainian artists to art connoisseurs of Europe and the world. Paintings and sculptures prove that Ukraine was, is and always will be a country of art. Today, more than ever, art has become a real force.”
Charles said: “Over the centuries, Ukrainian artists have produced a wide variety of works including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and textiles. Ukrainian art is known for its vibrant colours, expressive forms and intricate designs. This auction provides an exceptional opportunity to acquire beautiful and unique works whilst supporting the lives of these artists.
“The auction offers a spectacular array of modern masterpieces including paintings and sculpture. Many of the artists have distinguished careers with work in private and public collections throughout the world. Others are emerging artists.”
The Right Reverend Kenneth Nowakowski, Bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Holy Family of London, and the Very Reverend Fr. Mykola Matwijiwskyj, Rector of the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family in Exile, said:
“We are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to hold a charity auction at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family.”
Auction details
Auction: The Ukraine Art Fundraising Auction will be held at the Ukrainian Cathedral, Duke Street, London, W1K 5BQ, on October 10.
Viewing by appointment
Online catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk and www.the-saleroom.com
Enquiries: [email protected]
