I needed to do this mural as I felt so strongly about the injustice of what is happening.
I chose an urban roundabout in Oxford that could be seen by all drivers coming in and out of the city.
I use the symbol of the flower in many of my murals as it has a feeling of life and joy that people can relate to. It’s shape and patterning lends itself wonderfully to design. And surprisingly it always works well painting it in urban settings, under bridges and on walls.
On the technical level, I use emulsion for backgrounds and spray paints for detailing, whilst paint extension poles and small step ladders help me reach impossible places. In this instance I painted sunflowers and the Ukrainian colours- yellow and blue as I wanted to show my overwhelming support, unity and empathy for real existential threat the Ukrainians feel for their families and way of life. My only desire for this war to de-escalate and a chance for real peace to find a way forward.
I hope this brings some peace to our world.
