Sculptor & Arts Centre Raise Funds For Ukraine

Ilminster Arts Centre and a local sculptor have teamed up to use the power of art to raise funds for the people of Ukraine, following Russia's invasion.

Sculptor Mike Lanigan, from Ilminster, has carved a giant fist in stone, which has been splattered in red paint as a symbol of the brutality of Russian President Vladimir Putin.  The cubist sculpture, titled ‘The Bloody Fist of Putin', is now on display at Ilminster Arts Centre and will be auctioned online for a month. All proceeds will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee, a group of leading UK aid charities, in support of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Also, in a symbol of solidarity, Ilminster Arts Centre has temporarily changed its logo to reflect the colours of the Ukrainian flag. 

Mike, a regular exhibitor and volunteer at the arts centre, said: "Like many, my blood boiled at the Russian invasion of a peaceful democratic country. I've been so inspired by the bravery and unity of the Ukrainian people. As an artist, I felt compelled to honour their defiance against such an evil dictator and raise some funds for them at the same time. It's the least I can do."

As well as the dreadful human toll, Ukraine is facing an "unfolding cultural catastrophe", according to the J P Getty Trust, a global arts organisation.  At least one museum has already been burned to the ground and millions of artworks and monuments remain at risk.  The country is home to seven World Heritage sites.

Alan Hyde, a trustee at Ilminster Arts Centre, said: "We're pleased to host and support Mike's artistic response to such an appalling event in world history.  We hope his striking sculpture will fetch a decent price for a very worthwhile cause.

"At a time when many feel powerless to act, we wanted to show solidarity with Ukraine and, as an arts charity, to convey our concern about the wanton destruction of the country's rich cultural heritage and the restrictions imposed in Russia on freedom of speech, as well as support local artists who feel equally outraged and want to express themselves."

If you'd like to bid for ‘The Bloody Fist of Putin' sculpture and donate to help Ukraine's humanitarian crisis, visit Mike Lanigan's Instagram.