KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An East Tennessee nonprofit showed and auctioned off artwork that was rescued from Ukraine amid the country's war with Russia.
Restore Ukraine hosted a silent auction, called "What is UKRAINE?," at the Knoxville Museum of Art on Saturday to show the soul of Ukrainian communities.
The art has never been seen in the U.S. before. Organizers said the art shows the impact war has and provides an understanding of Ukrainian culture and heritage.
"They are here to tell very personal and intimate testimonies of the Ukrainian people," Yaroslav Hnatusko, executive director for Restore Ukraine, said. "Behind me, you can see so many angles and so much effort, and very deep heart and soul that each painter put into the painting."
All money from art and ticket sales will go towards winter supplies for those who might be exposed to the winter elements in Ukraine.