Ukrainian Institute of America hosts their art exhibit, Fioretti•Family, Friends & Flowers, March 15 - 29, 2024

The artwork and fundraising efforts are the brilliant creation of Academy Award-winners Joseph Fioretti (best known as the producer of Down and Out in America and Baghdad ER) and his actor and director wife Lee Grant (Shampoo, Valley of the Dolls). Lee's mother was Ukrainian. She has been lighting a candle every night.

The show features sunflowers - Ukraine's national symbol of peace and resilience - as well as beautiful portraits and upper west side cityscapes. It is free to the public and proceeds from art sales will go to benefit the war-torn country.

"This isn't about me" says Fioretti, who has donated 35 of his own paintings for the event. "It's about raising as much money as we can to give to them. And to bring eyes back to Ukraine. To help people become more aware."

For those who are deeply saddened by the war but don't know quite what to do, this is a good way to help.

"We're told the trauma centers are in desperate need" Fioretti continues. "People with missing arms and legs, and there are babies needing medicine. We're hoping the money raised will help bring supplies to the children, mothers, fathers, and grandchildren. Money is the most important thing."

Visitors to the exhibit can also contribute to the cause by purchasing books on the exhibition for $95 or posters for $50. He has lowered the price of his art for this show so it's affordable for the average person. Except for the portrait of Zelenskyy.

"I may offer it to Zelenskyy myself" says Joseph. "If not, it will be up for sale for a lot of money."

Joseph Fioretti's works will be on display and available for purchase at the Ukrainian Institute of America at 2 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075.

Exhibition hours are Mondays - Thursdays: 10am - 6pm; Fridays: 10am - 4pm; Closed: Saturday & Sundays.

If you can"t make it in person but are interested in buying one of the pieces to support Ukraine, please contact Sarah@rcourihaycpr.com.

Or to make a general donation, go to https://ukrainianinstitute.org/support-the-institute, 212-288-8660.