A social enterprise has highlighted the pivotal role a Ukrainian artist has played in bringing creativity to her countrymen and women in East Hampshire.
Maryna Melynk’s background in fine art and drawing led her to volunteer at the Creatful organisation in April 2023.
The fashion design graduate immediately impressed with her love of art and was quickly appointed leader of their weekly Ukrainian art group in Petersfield.
The programme, which runs every Friday in St Laurence Church Hall, gives Ukrainian children an opportunity to come together and explore their creativity. Parents are also welcome to come and engage in their own artistic projects.
The Ukrainian art group gives an opportunity for the attendees to feel close to their culture while living in England.
Maryna does this by speaking in Ukrainian and discussing the history of her homeland’s art while leading her sessions. Her own art is made up of symbolic paints which reproduce the history of Ukraine.
“We are so proud of what Maryna is doing for the Ukrainian community,” said Nancy Fellows, Creatful’s founding director.
“Working with Maryna and seeing the passion she brings to her work is inspiring and she has played a pivotal role in Creatful’s impact on communities throughout Hampshire.”
Maryna’s role in the community has been appreciated by East Hampshire District Council and Local Children’s Partnerships who have seen the effort Maryna has put into the art group.
Creatful is a non-profit organisation with an ethos of creativity creating connections. For more details check https://creatful.co.uk/