Ukraine Sunflower Fence Art

by Susan Chaloupka

"After the invasion of Ukraine on February 24th, I created Sunflower Fence Art to celebrate the bravery of the Ukrainian People. The Sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine.

Its has now been over 6 months of incredible destruction and death brought on by a bloodthirsty madman trying to take over their country. But the Ukrainian people are still fighting against the Russians, as well as celebrating their independence. Hold the people of Ukraine in your heart as they fight against incredible odds. I hope you will support them in any way you can. There are many great charitable organizations that are providing the people of Ukraine with food, medicine, housing and other support.

I call these pieces Fence Art, rather than wall hangings, based on the way they are constructed and fired. This sunflower was individually cut from a slab of stoneware clay and draped over a round form. It was then carved, shaped and trimmed, and attachments for hanging were added to the back before bisque firing. After bisquing, it was painted with various underglazes, stains and glazes, then high-fired in reduction in a gas kiln. Because it was high-fired, it can be left outside, even in Idaho winters.

Also, Fence Art pieces have hanging brackets that have been integrated to the back at the bisque stage. They are slightly recessed and spaced and joined with copper wire. That way you can put two nails or screws in the fence or wall, and the piece hangs flat and level. This makes the piece more stable and easier to take down to clean."

- Susan Chaloupka

North End Studio

(208) 890-9490

[email protected]

[email protected]