Sunflowers are coloring some storefronts in Uptown Westerville, thanks to Artists for Ukraine.
Meredith Martin, owner of Westerville’s Sunbear Studios & Gallery, 22 W. Main St., said she initiated the project because she wanted to do something to help after being horrified by the images of what is being called the Russian invasion.
“A student and friend sent CNN list of charitable organizations helping Ukraine,” she said. “It seemed an obvious idea to use our storefront window, and originally, I thought I would ask for just a few works of art, including my own, to display, sell and raise some money for one of these causes.
“I read about the charities and chose Americares. But once my call for art was issued, the message has spread, and the project has grown organically. Art is coming in from artists I don’t even know.”
As of March 14, 39 works of art from 27 artists have been contributed, with art pieces being displayed and offered for purchase in Uptown windows, including Sunbear; Green Haven Living, 20 W. Main St.; Morgan’s Treasure, 31. N. Main St.; Birdie Books, 74 N State St..; and The McCurdy Team at HER Realtors, 42 N. State St.
The sunflower, Ukraine’s national flower that has emerged as a global symbol of solidarity for the country, has been incorporated into the artists’ works.
