CASTINE — The Russia-Ukraine War and humanitarian tragedy have moved many Americans to action. Their horror and outrage at the rapidly unfolding disaster, destruction and death toll have prompted street protests, candlelight vigils, church services and fundraisers of all kinds around the United States.
In Maine, Yarmouth chef Christian Hayes headed overseas to help feed refugees. Newcastle’s Oxbow Brewing Co. is participating in the “Brew for Ukraine” campaign. Two Bangor TV stations, Fox 22 and ABC 7, switched their logos’ colors to match Ukraine’s national colors. Those are just a few of the signs and acts of support.
Castine artist Juliane Gardner is intent on doing her part too. A skilled oil painter, she has created a blue and yellow T-shirt, emblazoned with a sunflower. Ukraine is the world’s top exporter of sunflower oil. The sunflower has symbolized peace throughout the besieged nation’s history. Inset as the flower’s center is the planet Earth and a tiny heart on Ukraine. They cost $29.99 apiece. Orders will start shipping April 4.
“The Earth in the center, with the heart on Ukraine, signifies the global community coming together to provide support for the Ukrainian people,” the artist said this week. “The sunflower represents the Ukrainian strength and spirit.”
To produce the T-shirts, Gardner partnered with Bonfire.com, a custom shirt producer, which has set up the website www.bonfire.com/standwithukraine-2/. All her proceeds will be channeled to the Heart to Heart International Foundation, which is providing medical and humanitarian aid to Ukrainians.
In addition, the artist’s design is going on the face of yard signs that will be available for sale in coming weeks. Proceeds will go to the World Central Kitchen, which is providing humanitarian support for refugees as they enter Poland from Ukraine. They cost $20 apiece with $5 reserved to cover production costs. To preorder a yard sale sign, contact Gardner directly at [email protected] .
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