An art exhibition which is a testament to the resilience, compassion and solidarity that communities can build when they come together in the spirit of shared humanity is now on show in Parliament.
The Sunflower Social Club ‘Hearts in Ukraine and Ukraine in Herts’ exhibition was launched with a reception at the Palace of Westminster on Tuesday.
The exhibition is being supported by Watford MP Dean Russell as a joint initiative with Watford FC legend Luther Blissett, whose charity Former Players Club has been a driving force being the Sunflower Social Club which provides wide-ranging help and support to victims of the Ukraine war.
The MP said: "I was delighted to help arrange this important art exhibition in the UK Parliament.
"The Sunflower Social Club ‘Hearts in Ukraine and Ukraine in Herts’ exhibition is a testament to the resilience and unity of our communities. It showcases the incredible work being done to support our friends from Ukraine.
“It is an honour to stand alongside the Sunflower Social Club and Luther Blissett OBE DL and his partner Lauren Fox in championing these initiatives that promote inclusivity, compassion and solidarity."
The exhibition, which runs for a week, features artwork inspired by the experiences and dreams of the Sunflower Social Club’s ‘Ukraine artist in residence’ Iryna Bazinskya, whose story is remarkable.
The mother of three had life-changing surgery eight years ago and during recovery, discovered she could paint.
Ira has strong visions about what her artwork should be and paints from the soul.
The Sunflower Social Club is a community initiative by the Former Players Club. What started as a local initiative in Watford, has since blossomed into a wider support network, supporting families and even those still in Ukraine. Predominantly serving the residents of Hertfordshire, the Sunflower Social Club has extended its reach to offer aid, guidance and solace to Ukrainian families with support and cultural insight to their welcoming hosts.
This support spans crucial aspects of their lives, including housing assistance, employment opportunities, improving language proficiency, therapy resources, and a weekly drop-in social club at St Mary’s Church in Watford.
Sir Mike Penning MP and James Sunderland MP both spoke at Tuesday’s event, while a live link to Ukraine reminded everyone present of how important the bond between the two countries continues to be.
This link discussed the importance of the new Sunflower Academy which will enable Ukraine children to maintain links to their cultural heritage and children in Ukraine to know that they are not forgotten.
Former England international and Watford’s record goalscorer and appearance maker Luther said: “The Sunflower Social Club is more than just a place; it is a symbol of hope and friendship. This exhibition reflects the journey of many individuals who have embraced these families, forming bonds that transcend borders and language.
“We are pleased to have Dean Russell MP's support in showcasing the art and stories that highlight the beauty of this connection."
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