The simple yet spectacular sunflower and its symbolic importance to Ukraine.

Many cultures honor the sun, from the ancient Egyptians to our own native Americans. As the national flower of Ukraine, sunflowers are enchanting. And, a highly productive and a significant agricultural export for the nation. Ukraine produces more sunflower oil than any other country in the world. The sunflower is well-equipped to withstand drought, high salinity, variable ecosystems while requiring little fertilizer. Combined, these reasons make it a powerful symbol of the resistance to the Russian invasion.

Some of the available 6” x 6” sunflower tiles I made for you and Ukraine.

In peace and war, one of the most delightful qualities of the sunflower is that its blossoms follow the sun. Moving daily from east to west, facing the sun, and finally settling on facing east when the flowers open—giving sunflower fields an astonishing regularity with all flowers pointing in the same eastwards direction. This growth movement of plants in response to the sun is called "heliotropism," from the Greek helios for sun. You can see this for yourself here in Raleigh at the Dix sunflower field; full bloom is in July.

The Wind at My Back and Mon Amie sunflower tiles.

I've long used this cheerful flower in my work, and I've been thoughtfully drawing and glazing sunflower tiles this week and last to sell, with the profits going to Sunflower for Peace. An organization preparing tactical medical backpacks for paramedics and doctors on the front lines in Ukraine. The invasion has been going on longer than anyone expected, and although peace talks are happening, there is very little progress.

I've kept the imagery simple yet uplifting and I've lowered the pricing on these fundraising pieces to encourage sales. I genuinely appreciate your help in raising funds for this vital need and brave people.