These pictures are by Ukraine's wartime children

Denys Storozhuk points to pictures depicting soldiers, angels, tears, and terror.

“Glory to our heroes,” he reads from one. “This one says stop war.”

Some show devastation, while others detail hope, unity, and inspiration. Many carry the now overtly recognizable colours of the Ukrainian flag – blue and yellow.

Each showcases the emotions, thoughts, and new reality for the children in Ukraine who are behind the art. The drawings are from the city of Rivne and were done by children aged five to 12 while hunkered down in bomb shelters earlier in the war.

“I could not image. It was not their choice,” Storozhuk told Kelowna10 while holding back tears. “They are exposed to this war. They are scared. But they try to do what they can. Kids, basically, participating in the war efforts to help the country to survive.”

The art was made specifically for the people of Kelowna, spearheaded, in part, by the ongoing efforts of Kelowna Stands With Ukraine, of which Storozhuk leads.

The art is on display at the Rotary Centre for the Arts until May 26. It is free to view but donations can be made.

The drawings carry two purposes: to act as visceral evidence from lives turned upside down, and to help fundraise for supplies.

“Each drawing sold here can save a life back in Ukraine,” Storozhuk said.

Money from sales will be used to buy body armour and medical supplies to protect those fighting on the front line, many of whom are family of the young artists.

Storozhuk said art is powerful and, when seen in person, can have a deeper impact.

“People go to [the] Louvre, or art galleries, to see the original drawings. And I believe you feel different when you see originals, versus when you see it on the internet or TV. And that’s why it’s important to come and feel it by yourself.”

Storozhuk’s group has worked tirelessly since bombs started to drop on Feb. 24, to funnel life saving money and supplies towards war in Europe. The Herculean efforts have help raise upwards of $300,000 so far.

However, he said the money that once poured in has slowed, and greater endeavours are needed to collect money for people in Ukraine still desperately in need.

But Storozhuk’s work continues, often stretching for 18 hours a day, he said. Asked what goes through his head when he does get home, he simply replied; “Nothing.”

“It makes me exhausted, so much so, that I don’t have time to think [about anything else],” he said. “The war is going on right now. The biggest war in Europe for last 80 years. If I waste a minute now for relaxation or taking a rest, I will regret it later.”