Sometimes, I run very small, intimate workshops—just three participants—so each person can explore their own individual theme. This particular workshop was organised and sponsored by CMRC and contributed to the exhibition Borders, Bonds, Belonging, held at Ngurra Gunya Exhibition Hall, Parramatta Square. The exhibition, organised by CMRC and ADSi, was part of #RefugeeWeek2025 — a time to reflect, connect, and stand in solidarity amid global displacement and conflict.
Twelve talented Ukrainians shared their culture through paintings, music, and poetry, creating a powerful celebration of identity and resilience.
Our workshop took place in my art studio, which conveniently had all the supplies ready. The theme was open: participants could explore anything that reminded them of Ukraine or anything particular they love about Australia. The results were personal, heartfelt, and inspiring — a true testament to the power of creativity in connecting people and cultures.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined the workshop! I’m so proud of the beautiful creations you brought to life and all that you achieved with your creativity. A special shoutout to Sandy Bake Shop for hosting us in such a lovely space — your warm and welcoming environment made the day even more enjoyable. And of course, thank you to Nataliya Bake For Ukraine for the delicious sweet treats — you added that extra touch of magic to our day! It was such a joy to share this creative experience with you all. I can’t wait for the next one!
Every so often, a commission opens the door to an entirely new way of thinking. One such moment came when a client asked for something unexpected — a lightweight, sculptural object in the form of puppets. Creating puppets became an unusual and exciting way for me to explore my creativity. They sit somewhere between sculpture, design, and storytelling. Unlike painting, where the surface holds the narrative, puppets demand attention to volume, balance, texture, and movement. Even at rest, they suggest gesture, character, and presence. Working on these pieces allowed me to think beyond the wall and the frame, translating artistic ideas into tactile, three-dimensional forms. Each puppet became a small character — playful, expressive, and full of personality. This unexpected direction reminded me how important it is to stay open as an artist. New materials, new formats, and new requests can lead to discoveries that expand both practice and imagination — sometimes in the most surprising ways.
