A special auction of Ukrainian art will be held in An Grianán Theatre this Saturday, December 17 at 6pm.
The auction will be opened by Irish Times journalist and writer, Michael Harding who will make a general reflection on art and the situation in Ukraine.
The pieces selected for auction are part of the ‘Birds Flying High’ exhibition which is currently on display in An Grianán Theatre and was successfully launched by the Cathaoirleach of Letterkenny Municipal District, Cllr Donal Mandy Kelly last Saturday.
The exhibition is titled “Birds Flying High” after the song by jazz singer Nina Simone. It includes the work of over 30 Ukrainian artists, professional and amateur, as a gesture of thanks to the Irish people.
Speaking to the Donegal News, curator of this unique set of artworks, Svitlana Babenko said they chose to feature birds as they hold a special meaning and significance for people from Ukraine.
“Each bird is like an amulet for each house, a symbol of love and protection, bringing peace and safety to each Ukrainian home,” she said.
This exhibition showcases the work of Ukrainians living in exile who want to share these images in the hope they too bring peace and beauty to their adopted Irish homes.
With over 90 paintings for auction, some of the proceeds of the sales will go to the artists themselves, some to cover the costs of the exhibition and 15 per cent of the proceeds from the auction will go towards the Cathedral Quarter Initiative in Letterkenny.
Speaking ahead of the auction, Svetlana said she was delighted with last weekend’s launch.
“There was a beautiful atmosphere last Saturday as Irish people and Ukrainians mixed together and we were able to share our culture.
“I am delighted that writer Michael Harding will be opening the auction. We are very grateful to the people of Letterkenny and Donegal for all their support since we came to Ireland. For us to give a part of the proceeds from the auction is our way of giving something back to the town.
“Even if we only play a small part in the Cathedral Quarter Initiative, even if our proceeds get them a few trees, something from the Ukrainian community will remain in Letterkenny,” she said.
The exhibition runs until December 19 and is supported by Donegal Intercultural Platform, the Arts office of Donegal County Council and An Grianian Theatre.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)