b'Partnering With Our ArtistsStaying connected with our donors is important to us. And were pleased that we can also partner with our artists in showing appreciation for your support. For two of four annual campaigns we invite artists to submit original works of art that, if selected, are shared with our donors in the form of either a bookmark or Christmas card. Over 35 established and emerging artists have enjoyed having their work showcasedby the Foundation to a wide Canadian art-loving audience. INFLUENCINGCONTEMPORARY ARTThe Shevchenko Foundation Christmas card for 2021 was designed by Canadian illustrator Kathryn Durst. Kathryn began her artistic career as an animator but her love of classic books and vintage illustrations together with her interest in folk art and traditions led her to illustrating. Kathryn has illustrated several books including the fiction seriesVlad the Worlds Worst Vampire and an exciting collaboration with Paul McCartney on his best-selling childrens booksHey Grandude and Grandudes Green Submarine.Her involvement with a summer folk camp organized by the Toronto-based Kosa Kolektiv inspired her creation, Woodland Carollers, featured on the Christmas card.I hope that my Christmas card inspires other artists to see the beauty of Ukrainian culture and its potential for influencing contemporary art.- KATHRYN DURSTINSPIRING UNIQUE STRENGTHThe Shevchenko Foundation Commemorative Bookmark celebrates the legacy of renowned Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko. Our bookmark for 2022 was designed by Canadian artist Olya Tkachenko reflecting Shevchenkos poem Its Not for People, Not for Fame. The imagery dramatically reflects the challenges of every artist, but it is the self-expression of the one that transforms into the art enjoyed by the many.I consider our workthe work of artiststo be very important in a time of war. We can express that which is unspeakable. And we will be heard. My heart is breaking for my Ukraine and right now the poetry of Taras Shevchenko inspires a unique strength and offers comfort as never before, commented artist Olya Tkachenko.The Bookmark is complemented by the annualNational Childrens Bookmark Contestto encourage a new generation of visual artists and readers of Taras Shevchenkos poems.27'