Toronto, ON – July 25, 2012 – On Tuesday, July 17th 2012, the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada kicked off its 80thAnniversary celebrations with a capacity crowd at the UNF Toronto Branch’s Open House which featured displays about the affiliated organizations, artistic ensembles, sports groups and included performances by the UNF Toronto Branch Boyan Choir, Canadian Bandurist Capella and Trio Maky. A special anniversary slide show created by UNF summer students William Pidzamecky and Michael Kit outlined the rich history of the UNF and its contribution to the development of a multicultural Canada.
The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of a specially commissioned painting by Larisa Sembaliuk Cheladyn titled “Celebrating our Culture”. The watercolour painting is a reflection of the ties between the ancestral and new homeland that inspired the Federation’s founders and their work.
Arts and culture were integral to the UNF and its role in building a multicultural Canada. The bandura and the violin, embroidered costumes and the branch of kalyna (high bush cranberry) are among the elements in this artwork that represent the many artistic groups founded by the UNF.
The musical scores for O Canada and a traditional song longing for Ukraine’s liberty reflect the civic engagement of UNF members in embracing the freedoms and democracy available to them as citizens of Canada, and in working to bring those values to life in their ancestral land.
Larisa Sembaliuk Cheladyn is an accomplished artist who has had the opportunity to create projects around the world. She particularly enjoys painting images from her Ukrainian cultural heritage. Her unique depiction of Ukrainian dance, musical instruments and typical Ukrainian imagery recreates fond memories of rich cultural traditions.
The lithographs prints are a limited edition of 300. There are also greeting cards for sale.
Own a piece of History, order your print or greeting card today (see attached order form)
Contact Information: email info@unfcanada.com, call 416-925-2770
“Celebrating our Culture”
