In the summer of 2023, I was able to travel to Ukraine, crossing the Polish border and making my way east across the full span of the country. I met new people and saw old friends and family. In Kyiv, I met a resilient musician and activist for Ukraine, raising significant funds for the country. I reconnected with a childhood friend who is a folk singer and a puppet actress. Her story is truly inspiring: she traveled to the recently liberated town of Kherson to perform for children who experienced occupation and destruction. I also met a muralist duo who spray-paint cars destined for the frontline with a camouflage pattern. They volunteer for humanitarian aid, and amidst it all, still work on commissions to paint murals for neighborhoods, stores, and more. Outside of Kyiv, in liberated Irpin, I interviewed a potter and an author who has maintained her ceramic practice even with enemy drones flying overhead and threatening their wood kiln.
Lastly, I reconnected with my immediate family, whose garden provides an escape from war. Who still gather together for dinners amidst rubble and danger. All their stories are empowering. As a Ukrainian and as an artist, sharing these stories with you is something I am deeply passionate about. You can view the full film at The Roxy Theater on April 17th at 7:30 PM or stream it on YouTube, available on April 18th at 9:00 PM MST.

Thank you for supporting Ukraine.