Russian invasion prompts Bracebridge artist to create The Vicious Sickle

Far from her typical work inspired by tranquil scenes of flora and fauna, local artist Janice Feist’s latest creation comes straight from a visceral reaction to this week’s international headlines.

Feist has just finished The Vicious Sickle, a 24” x 30” acrylic painting on vinyl, and the message is unmistakable.

“The news of Feb. 24 Russian invasion of Ukraine filled my creative mind – with anger, angst and solidarity,” she says. “This painting is an acknowledgement of injustice and of unification, as the people of Ukraine stand as one against their attacker.”

Feist says she is typically inspired by the bedrock and forests of her Muskoka studio, and has never painted this sort of subject material before.

“My work is primarily good-feeling, nature-inspired and peaceful,” she said. “The shock of this event is unsettling to say the least.”

Feist is offering the painting to the highest bidder with a deadline of Sunday March 6 at 12:00 p.m. – all proceeds go to the Canada Red Cross, Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. Interested parties can contact her through her website (www.janicefeist.com) or on Facebook and Instagram.

“If this painting or bidding isn’t your thing, you can make a donation directly to the Canada Red Cross,” she says.