From Colossal: Maria Prymachenko (1908–1997) was a self-taught folk artist known for her renderings of life in the Ukrainian countryside. Her gouache and watercolor works are vibrant and imaginative, depicting symmetrical red poppies tucked in a small vase or fantastical bull-like animals sprouting two-headed snakes. Expressive and consistently advocating for peace, Prymachenko’s paintings are widely known throughout Ukraine and internationally: she received a gold medal at the Paris World Fair in 1937, when Pablo Picasso is said to have dubbed her “an artistic miracle.”
Earlier this week, Russian attacks northwest of Kyiv destroyed the Ivankiv Historical and Local History Museum, where about 25 of her works were housed. According to the Ukrainian Institute, though, local residents were able to retrieve the pieces from the burning museum before they were lost entirely. The aggression subsequently prompted calls for Russia to be removed from UNESCO, which declared 2009 the year of Prymachenko.
Aghast at what is happening in Ukraine and thinking about this Fresh Air episode: “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has already changed the world as we know it.” And also, this poem.
My thoughts were also on our own family this week. We spent time with our family visiting from Germany and Ohio, and we celebrated Aron’s father’s life yesterday in a service attended by many of his friends, family, and colleagues. It was remarkable and inspiring to feel how much John was admired by his community—and gave me comfort to feel that he lives on in so many hearts.
Some links of note…
Disinformation. “‘My city’s being shelled, but mum won’t believe me.” Of note: Russia banned access to Facebook within the past hour.
On economic sanctions. Will they be enough?
Russian-watcher Fiona Hill on the ambitions of Putin.
On our media (mediated) experience of the war from afar.
The Center on Poverty and Social Policy found that 3.7 million more children are in poverty as a result of Congress rolling back the child tax credit between December and January.
This episode of The Daily really hits home how important it is that we all vote in primary elections.
Hudson’s field trip to the California Museum featured oral histories from Japanese Americans who were placed in incarceration centers during World War II.
Every Julian Fellowes script. Ha!
Enjoyed this short clip about allowing yourself to be creative.
I’m currently (finally) watching This Way Up and it’s incredible. I also am getting Aron to (finally) watch Better Things on Hulu—which starts a new season next week and which I wrote about here. Both are reminding me to watch more comedies! A Cup of Jo had some recs I’m bookmarking.
This outdoor/indoor shower situation is lovely!
Did I already link this as a recipe I’d like to try? I may have. I still would like to.
On how to argue: “It’s difficult to stay kind and understanding in the face of idiocy and aggression. But if you do it — you’ll be the real champion.” Keeping this in mind on Facebook.
And something pretty… New patterns and prints in this favorite maxi dress. Would be nice for a spring or summer wedding—or just to feel fancy leaving the house. This one or this one, too (though the latter might be overkill at the grocery).
[Image: “Red Poppies” (1982), gouache and paper, 85.7 x 61.4 centimeters, Maria Prymachenko]
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