Dear Artfinder community,
Over recent weeks we have been witnessing increasing challenges resulting from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The conflict is taking a major toll on people of Ukraine and now through sanctions also people of Russia and Belarus.
Art without borders
Art is the essence of what it means to be human and it is the ultimate expression of one of humanity's most unique and beautiful qualities: creativity. Art as a universal language knows no borders. Our very existence as a company is to connect the worldwide community of artists and art lovers, we are by definition global and the ability to work with artists on all continents genuinely excites us all. We want to support independent artists no matter where they come from or where they live.
As an art platform and a business, it is not our intention to engage in politics. But we have, and always will, stand up for important social issues and causes, and right to peace is indeed one of those causes that Artfinder and our community collectively want and need to stand up for.
Pausing our operations in Russia
We have done everything in our power in recent weeks to support all of our artists, everywhere, but as sanctions continue to tighten we must regrettably now take the decision to pause working with sellers based in Russia and Belarus. This decision comes into effect from Monday 21st March 2022 and will remain in place until sanctions are lifted.
Supporting artists in Ukraine
The events unfolding before our eyes today are shocking, heart breaking, surreal and unnecessary. Many of our Artfinder artists are based in the Ukraine. It's unthinkable to imagine what they must be going through and it is our job to do everything we can to support them through this difficult time.
Art for Peace with all proceeds to humanitarian aid
From 1st March to 31st March 2022, 100% of all proceeds made from artworks sold from the Art for Peace collection will be donated to Sunflower of Peace, a non-profit organisation working to provide medical and humanitarian aid to paramedics and doctors in the areas that are affected by the violence in Ukraine.
Our hearts go out to all those affected by this situation. We hope that a path to peace is soon to be found and that we are able to begin working with our Russian and Belarusian artists again in the near future.
Michal & Team Artfinder
Image Credit: Living in Peace by Ve Boisvert
