Douglas Farthing 09 Jan — 03 Feb / 10am - 5pm

DOUGLAS FARTHING – UKRAINE

A collection of 25 small works on paper.

These works were gathered from sketches during my time in Ukraine from July 2022, capturing a lot about the country, conflict, and emotion beyond the more conventional “war” depictions. It is a testament to the power of drawing in conveying emotions and telling stories that need to be heard. I have been working with an International non-government organization dedicated to providing aid and support to those affected by the ongoing conflict. These drawings are a record of my time here.

As you look through the paintings you will witness the power of human resilience and the spirit of those who are passionate about making a difference. The stories shared here are both heartbreaking and inspiring, revealing the strength and determination of individuals amidst adversity.

One poignant encounter took place during a morning breakfast in Kharkiv, a city once heavily bombarded by the Russians. Over a conversation with Marina, a member of the CASH team, I heard about her harrowing escape from her hometown of Luhansk, leaving behind everything she knew. Her journey, filled with fear and uncertainty, led her to Kropyvnytskyi, where she now calls home. Through her story, we glimpse the immense challenges faced by displaced individuals and the resilience they demonstrate in rebuilding their lives. There are several drawings within the books showing displaced people. There is a resilience to them all. But also, vulnerability, I found it hard listening to the stories.

These works capture the essence of this journey. Each artwork holds within it a tapestry of emotions, reflecting both the sorrow and the triumph experienced in Ukraine. These drawings serve as a visual narrative, allowing the viewer to connect with the stories on a deeper level.

You will witness the stark reality of the conflict’s impact on both the landscape and its people. The destruction caused by relentless missile and drone attacks is a reminder of the ongoing violence and its toll on innocent lives. Yet, amidst the devastation, there are tales of resilience, hope, and the unwavering human spirit.

This collection invites you to take a step into the experiences over this period and the lives of those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. It is a testament to the power of drawing in conveying emotions and telling stories that need to be heard. Through these works, I hope to foster empathy, understanding, and a sense of shared humanity. – Douglas Farthing

We are pleased to share with you digital copies of the sketchbooks that inspired this collection.

Sketchbook 1

Sketchbook 2

Sketchbook 3

All works are framed.