I wanted to do something to show support for Ukrainians forced into refugee status.

“I imagine what it must be like to feel the earth shake as bombs destroy neighbours homes only blocks away. I imagine running for my life with family, young or fragile, with nothing but the clothes I’m wearing, among so many others, scared for their lives. And for those who get away, then what? They’ve lost homes, belongings, work, and their future. It’s horrifying.”

I created a digital painting of a sunflower, a symbol of loyalty, adoration and now known as the national flower of the Ukraine. Because of their association with the sun, sunflowers are a happy flower, making them an even more powerful emblem of hope.

Married with a Celtic design, which cuts to my own cultural heritage, the intricate knot at the centre seed disc has a repeating pattern of 9. Nine represents completion, culmination of wisdom and experience, and buzzes with the energy of both endings and new beginnings.

Money raised through sales will help get Ukrainians to safety. She aims to sell at least 200 shirts, giving 100% of her earnings to the Canadian Ukraine Foundation.