Creative types sell their works
WEST Wales artists and craft makers are holding fundraising sales of their work in aid of the Ukrainian humanitarian relief effort.
Millions of people have now fled their homes in Ukraine because of the war that broke out on February 24 after Russia launched its invasion in the early hours.
Creative types in Carmarthen have decided to band together and raise money for the work being done to help those fleeing the war.
Meanwhile, a Newcastle Emlyn based artist is selling his work at a special exhibition this month in aid of the crisis.
The Carmarthen sale takes place at the Nurture Centre in John Street on Saturday, April 9 between 11am and 3pm.
Organiser and artist Linda Cowburn said: “All proceeds will be going to the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal as all the work will have been donated and we will only be able to take payment in cash.
“We just wanted to do what we can to help and so as artists and craft makers it was an opportunity to do something through our work. If anyone would like to donate art work and crafts, they can bring them on the day and we will be open to receive work from 10am at the Nurture Centre.
“Please put your name and contact details on the back if you want the work returned if it doesn’t sell.”
In Newcastle Emlyn artist Andrew Francis is also helping the DEC appeal by showing and selling his work at a knock-down price to raise money. Mr Francis, who has a gallery and studio on Heol Parc Y Trap in Adpar, Newcastle Emlyn, is holding a special exhibition until April 16.
He said: “I am appalled at what is happening in Ukraine and I want to do something to help. Each painting will have a minimum price of just £10 but I hope people will consider paying more.
“Hundreds of paintings will be for sale, many of which depict our wonderful West Wales landscape.
“People are welcome to drop in at the gallery or phone to make an appointment if you prefer.”
Carmarthenshire Council has said it will offer a full range of support to Ukrainian families and local people who offer to host refugees in their homes. It includes offering to welcome a Ukrainian family into their home for a few weeks or months, until a permanent home can be found, or making a home available to rent.
People could volunteer to help prepare homes for families to move into, or help with transport for newlyarrived families.
Those who can speak Ukrainian or Russian are being asked to assist with interpretation and translation, helping Ukrainian children with homework and using other specialist skills and knowledge to help refugee families.