Ukraine has a rich and inspiring artistic history. Pyshanky eggs, petrykivka folk art painting, vyshyvanka embroidery… While my heritage is not Slavic, I have friends who settled here from Ukraine. And I am inspired but this rich artistic heritage.

I wanted to help – and as a full time artist – art was how I felt I could help. I have artwork, and a creative voice to use. I am organizing a small raffle this weekend at the Spring Innovative Beads Expo I have a group of friends helping me, both generously donating artwork, and helping host the show at out “block” of booths. Thanks to Marsha Neal Studio, Diane Hawkey, Staci Louise Smith, and Nikki of Thornburg Bead Studio for their support and donations! Please come see us this weekend and support this grassroots fundraiser.

Here are a few of the pieces we are creating for this event!

Rules:

1. Ticket can be purchased during the bead show from me! I am at #207!
2. You can “vote” for the entry/artwork you would like to win by placing your ticket in that item’s box.
3. Tickets are $1 each – and you are encouraged to buy multiples! More chances to win!
4. There are two rounds of the raffle: Friday – Saturday noon and Saturday – Sunday.
5. You do not have to be present to win. ( Items can be shipped to winners. We will donate all shipping costs.)
6. All proceeds will go to World Central Kitchen to be used for humanitarian aid.

World Central Kitchen was founded in 2010 by chef Jose Andres. Their mission is to provide food for those in need during extreme circumstances. They have “created a new model for disaster relief helping devastated communities recover and establish resilient food systems.”

“Because food is not a luxury reserved for the lucky few. It’s a universal human right to live free from hunger. At times like these, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of the challenges we face, and the speed of each new crisis. But many complex problems have simple solutions. Sometimes you just need to decide to do something. Sometimes you just have to show up with a sandwich or some warm rice and beans. You’d be amazed at the power of a plate of food. It can change the world, and so can you.”