MAKE A DIFFERENCE
The SUNFLOWER
is a symbol of Ukraine and in 2022 the sunflower emerged as a global symbol
of resistance, unity, and hope.
About one hundred different Sunflower artworks have been created by Namibian artists especially for the exhibition and the opening, which took place on the 24th of February, was dedicated to the anniversary of the russian invasion of Ukraine.
Each piece is handmade and absolutely unique. In every single creation you can feel a part of the soul the artist put into his work. Everyone was really excited to do their essential part for the people in Ukraine.
These pieces have either been donated by the artist in full, or a certain percentage of art work sold are donated to the cause.
All proceeds will go to humanitarian needs in Ukraine.
Guests were treated to a welcome drink, sponsored by Gellert Unlimited Hospitality Solutions, at the entrance.
The guests could also try some traditional Ukrainian snacks, Kazinaki prepared by Memphis Barbeque and Blues Restaurant.
Mrs. Beatrice Schultz,
entrepreneur and Swakopmund ambassador for future females,
officiated the event with her opening speech:
"Today we gather to celebrate this beautiful flower and to show our support to the people of Ukraine. Ukraine has faced many challenges this year but its people always show remarkable strength. The Sunflower show us that the hope can be found even in the darkest time. Let us be inspired to continue supporting Ukrainian people."
Then Jessica le Grange, the public relations officer for COSDEF, presented the program of the evening and also encouraged everyone to participate in a lucky draw to have a chance to win one of the Ukrainian souvenirs worth between N$30 and N$250, or one of the gift-vouchers provided by Gondwana, Otto Gunter and Little Food Nursery.
A lucky draw ticket is available at the exhibition for only N$50, for the duration of the exhibition until
24th March, or get it for free when you buy any of the artworks of our artists. Funds from the lucky draw
are all also going towards the fund.
Three entries, of wich each has a unique story to tell, were put up for auction at the opening ceremony.
The auction was conducted by Austin Dienst.
"Soul of a child" by Luna Esterhuizen
"I was very impressed to read about Mavka. Mavka is a type of female spirit in Ukrainian folklore and mythology. The spirits known by this term represented the souls of girls who had died unnatural tragic or premature deaths. That's why I've decided to paint such a picture right now."
"Blessed by the Sun" by Elena Hamman
"I'm Ukrainian and the Sunflower embodies Ukraine, a generous beautiful country blessed by the Sun with its free and talented hardworking people. It represents light and hope."
"Sunflower mosaic" by Desert Painters
The third masterpiece was painted by the group of artists Desert Painters, who were greatly inspired to create it by a chance meeting in Namibia with Anna Grechishkina, solo female traveler around the world on a motorcycle. She has paused her 10-year journey after 9 years travelling to return to Ukraine and do everything in her power to help Ukraine to win.
There were then 4 prizes drawn for our participants.
Three gift vouchers of equal value were awarded to:
- Carolien Zietsman from Bead World,
- Rukano Wayera from Scrapbooking Namibia,
- Elena Hamman from Art Stop Namibia.
And one more special prize from Bead World went to Tharina De Jager.
The main prize from Charly's Desert Tours was drawn from among about 100 of our entries.
The winner was item number 51.
Each master who participated has received
a certificate of appreciation.
The exhibition attendees were delighted to be able to discuss their favourite artwork with its creator.
Our guests had an opportunity to learn more about Ukraine, ask questions to Ukrainians and to find out what Ukraine and Namibia have in common and tried to answer the quiz.
Also they were interested in the role of the Sunflower in our everyday life which is far more than only oil or seeds to snack.
Afterwards all the guests could try some traditional Ukrainian food at the Memphis Barbeque and Blues restaurant. There were Holubtsy, Chicken Kiev and Varenyky on the menu, and the guests were very delighted with the food.
Thank you Olga’s PhotoDesign for the photos.
Many thanks to COSDEF Arts & Crafts Centre for providing us the space, for all your help and
for all your dedicated assistance and hard work!
Thank you all! Thank you for your support and generosity.
An atmosphere of kindness, love and peace permeated throughout the evening.
The exhibition will continue until the 24th of March. Come and buy some amazing unique artwork by Namibian artists, take part in a lucky draw raffle in support to Ukrainian people or just enjoy the beauty being exhibited and discover interesting facts about the Sunflower and about Namibia & Ukraine.
If you want to learn more about the culture in Ukraine or you have any other questions, give us a call and we'll arrange your meeting with Ukrainians.
If you are interested in a particular artist, we can provide all the details you need.
Sunflower Exhibition & Sale
is open until 24 March 2023
9:00 – 17:00 Mon – Fri
9:00 – 13:00 Sat
Never underestimate the power of art!
