This series was created in support of Ukraine being invaded by Russia.

My brother's wife, Olga, is from Ukraine. Olga's son, her new daughter-in-law and an infant were in the city of Mariupol when we last heard from them.

For three weeks, we did not hear anything, but remained hopeful for the best.

My brother and his wife have been suffering from severe depression, and rightfully so. As an artist, I could not feel their physical pain, but I witnessed the emotional horror day in and day out. Creating these pieces helped me to digest the daily barrage of grim news.

In the series "Shards of Ukraine", I’ve taken old shards of blue glass (the blue of the Ukrainian flag) and reformed it into a woman’s figure, suggesting rebirth, and a more feminine perspective.

Inside some of the blown out sections of the sculptures, you’ll find representation of the people that were there before substantiation of the Ukrainian people who are being erased. But also affirmation of the strength of the Ukraine people fighting to be free.

We found out just a few days ago that our family is alive! They could not give their location at the time, but we have found out my brother and sister-in-law made it to Poland.

To help create awareness hope - and possibly prosperity for the future of Ukraine.

I had a dream just a few nights ago. In my dream, I was at a gallery show with some very wealthy people in attendance. We were discussing the true courage of the Ukrainian people. I told the group that it takes courage from everyone, including all communities and all people.

It takes courage to put awareness and creativity towards a new consciousness.

In my dream, I made an announcement that I would donate any sculpture to anyone generous enough to give $1 million to the Ukrainian refugee’s war effort.

—Ted Emrick
April 14, 2022