Art auction raises funds for Ukrainian refugees

Andy Redwood, Ringwood Art Society, Owen Griffiths, Love Ukraine (Ringwood) and Mayor Cllr Gareth DeBoos.

Ringwood Art Society recently held an online auction of donated original paintings in aid of Ringwood based Ukrainian refugees. Owen Griffiths, Chair of Love Ukraine (Ringwood), received a cheque for £652.51 from auction organiser Andy Redwood at the society’s summer exhibition preview evening which was opened by Ringwood Mayor, Cllr Gareth DeBoos and his wife, Mary.

The vision for Love Ukraine Ringwood is to provide a safe, stable and welcoming environment for people coming to the Ringwood area from the war in Ukraine and helping them to integrate into the community. The group is currently in the integration phase with a particular focus on learning English, finding employment, and becoming independent. This is achieved through a range of activities including CV support, interview support, provision of clothing and other much needed items, English lessons, information sessions, signposting and building friendship and social support networks for hosts and their guests.

On accepting the cheque, Owen said “I would like to thank the Ringwood Art Society for being so welcoming and generous towards our Ukrainian friends - including donating and auctioning original works of art and for inviting Ukrainians artists to join them at their events and meetings.” 

Ringwood Art Society’s exhibition is now on until 29th August, showing over 300 original works of art including framed and unframed paintings, 3-dimensional work and cards.