Olympia McEwan is an artist who also runs art wellbeing workshops in the island. She was moved to offer help when the news broke about Russia invading Ukraine.
“We’re all feeling devastated for everyone in the region: you get that awful sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach.
“I had to look to my strength and ask what I could do,” she said.
“I know I have a following on the island of people who appreciate my work, so why not get it online and get it auctioned.”
Pictured: Meadow Flowers with Polymmatus Iccarus by Olympia McEwan.
Ms McEwan auctioned off a high quality canvas print for £1,500 on Facebook. A second person who just missed out on winning the top bid donated £1,000 as well.
She decided to funnel the proceeds towards Samu, a Spanish medical disaster relief team who are currently operating out of Tulcea in Romania.
The team is made up of doctors and nurses who’ve volunteered to undergo disaster relief training. They are supporting refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine.
“I find it difficult trying to find charities that I like to personally give money to, I prefer to find an organisation I have a personal relationship with,” said Ms McEwan.
She chose Samu through Sarah Griffith, a friend and once advisor to Samu. She is now doing logistical back office work for the group.
“The money goes directly to them,” said Ms Griffith. “They need funds to buy replacement dugs as they move forward.”
Pictured: Ms Griffith has been updating followers on Facebook with what the Samu team have been doing.
Ms Olympia said many of her peers are now hoping to utilise their artwork to support Ukrainian refugees.
“Watch this space,” she said.
“It seems to be gaining momentum, I know of at least five other artists putting their work up for auction this week.”
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