Friday, February 24, 2023

One Year In - Ukraine Holds Strong

 


Gregg Chadwick

One year ago on Feb 24, 2022 - Russia launched its full scale genocide in Ukraine and 9 years ago this week Russia began its operation to illegally annex Crimea.

My painting "Home Guard (112th Territorial Defense Brigade - Kyiv, Ukraine)" is an homage to the brave Ukrainians fighting against an immoral and illegal invasion by Putin's Russia. I remember as a young boy when my father left for war as a US Marine. I can see in the faces of the kids and partners in Ukraine the same mix of fear and pride I felt as my dad told me that he was leaving home to fight for freedom. Ukrainians live in a democratic society that values diversity and opportunity for all. Many couples have decided to fight together against Putin's invasion. Putin wants to crush Ukraine. But he will never prevail against these brave heroes protecting their homeland.

In 2015 at the Venice Biennale, MarySue and I took part in an art performance called "On Vacation" protesting Russia's invasion of Crimea. See - Images 2 and 3.

Half of my proceeds for this painting will be donated to World Central Kitchen's efforts in Ukraine to provide food and sustenance to those fighting for their freedom. As Chef Jose Andres says,"Wherever there is a fight so that hungry people may eat, we will be there." 

#ChefsForTheWorld #Ukraine #SlavaUkraini #art #contemporaryart #NoSurrender @ukraine.ua #OnVacation @stevievanzandt




In 2015 at the Venice Biennale, MarySue and I took part in an art performance called "On Vacation" protesting Russia's invasion of Crimea. 

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