With the humanitarian disaster in Ukraine very much on our daily newsfeed, it is hard to escape the horror of the war almost on our doorstep. Each of us is forced to consider what part we can play in helping the innocent victims of this invasion.
As a Rotarian I regularly contribute to fundraising initiatives to raise money for Foundation, Rotary International’s own charity, which offers grants to worthy causes across the world. This includes a fund to support disasters and we also support Aquabox and Shelterbox, which can ensure clean water and a roof over the head of displaced families.
In the past I have used my artistic skills to design greetings cards for End Polio Now and Strathcarron Hospice. I have just received my first order of Sunflowers for Ukraine cards, so can start selling these via the Rotary club of Kilsyth, with all profits going to the Foundation charity, to support the work being done in Ukraine. £10 for a pack of 5 cards. The blue envelopes and yellow flowers mirror the colours of the Ukrainian flag.
When peace is eventually restored, we will look back and say, what did we do to offer support? As with all things in life, if everyone did something, collectively we could achieve a great deal.
As I take on the role of President of my Rotary club in July, I will be even more aware of asking myself, ’ what do you want your legacy to be?’
I continue to work mostly on individual art commissions, each one a small legacy of my artwork, often marking special occasions , special places and special pets.
This week it has been paintings of wedding venues as gifts for the bride and groom.