Ukrainian Mural

On By ResaIn Murals, Tributes

In one of my alley wanderings I came upon this fabulous mural, albeit unfinished.

I kept returning. It remained unfinished, but the scaffolding (in slideshow below) kept moving.

  • Artist at work on the mural.
  • If I could just get a shot of her face!
  • I shot on 4 visits, scaffolding et all

On one visit, I met the business owners next door. From them, I learned that the mural had been started about a year and a half earlier, but the artist had been in an accident.

His injuries required lengthy healing, and he had just recently returned to work on the mural.

Finally one day in November, it was finished. I shot over a hundred pics. Unfortunately, I had to return in December.

I told Trent the day had been dark with black clouds, and the pics came out really warm. I would return on a brighter day.

Confession; like an idiot I accidentally had the camera on a warm setting.

All in all I must have returned to the site 8 times.

Returning to the unfinished mural had become like reading a great book, and I was sad when it was finished.

I love intricate murals, as there is so much detail to take pics of.

The slideshow on the right, presents the details I languished in.

I was going to pick a fave, but I kept changing my mind.

At some point I realized it was the back door to the Schevchenko Museum. The sign was always there, but I ignored it because it was all about the mural, for me.

About the Schevchenko Museum

Taras Schevchenko (1814 – 1861) Ukrainian artist, poet & thinker. Once imprisoned by Russia for his views, his rich creative legacy remembers him.

I was dazed by the collection of images and history on the website. I’ll be visiting over the winter months.

Left: Self portrait – click on portrait to visit museum website.

There were always cars parked on the site.

Sometimes they were clean (ish), and I was able to get some cool reflections.

The greenish one at the end is actually reflecting next door artwork.

Thank You to Trent for this Song!

A Million Miles Away

V1
He said, “You’re a threat”
As his tanks gathered on the borderline

He said, “You must be stopped!”
As his missiles started flying

He shook his fist
And his countrymen fell in line

“It’s us or them”
And our babies started dying

Chorus

V2
Another town, another city
Turned to rubble over night

In darken cellars the children
With each bomb blast, shake in fright

Refugees and wounded
Walk and crawl the road of flight

Is anybody out there
To listen to our plight?

Chorus

It’s a million miles away

CHORUS

How’s your work?
And how’s the weather?
How’s your mom and dad?

The traffic sucks
It started raining
So things have been real bad (1)
So things are really bad (2)

My pickup’s dirty
The dog’s on the couch
Tik Tok has been a bore

The football game
On my 80-inch TV
Was postponed for some stupid war
A million miles away

About the Song in Trent’s Words

Another new song, and, yes, another dark one. The four-note motif that runs through the verse might remind you of “Carol of the Bells”. I was thinking of the music that that carol was based on, Shchedryk, a Ukrainian New Years song arranged by composer Mykola Leontovych. Those four notes, though, are thought to be ancient, going back to before Christianity was introduced to Ukraine.

By this motif you may guess that the “he” in the first verse is “Putin” and the country being invaded is “Ukraine”. You are partially right – it is inspired by that war, but the idea is any war, particularly a war where a dominant power invades a lesser one, and how people here can care less about the lives lost. Anyway, I will let the song speak for itself, except that I want to say I think I did a pretty good job channeling my inner “Bob” on the first chorus…

Pics taken by Resa – July – December, 2024

Toronto, Canada

The Artist:

Alley Location Images

180 thoughts on “Ukrainian Mural”

  1. Resa, this is beautiful. The work on it is unbelievable. What a great start to my day to see this. AND I think I bookmarked your last one to read it properly too xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

    1. Shey,

      It seems Like I’ve been working on capturing this mural to make this post, for forever, but it’s only been half a year.

      I just love it. It’s one of the most beautiful murals I’ve ever found. There are some other that come to mind, but this one is right up there. I’m so happy you got to see it!

      AND I finally have a theme for the next AGMs post! More on that later!

      xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

        1. The city of Winnipeg has some amazing murals, but not quite as amazing. Actually , the artist who painted this has many murals in the west end.
          I posted some in the early days of the blog.
          Still, this one is special.

  3. Wow! The details on the artwork are amazing. I can see why you returned to the see the mural many times, and why you didn’t notice the sign above the mural. That painting would pull my eyes to see the various parts and details 🌞

    1. The details are fantastic. Lol… the day I noticed the sign I thought, when did they put that sign up.

      When I was home, and checked the photos I’d been taking all along, that’s when I realized that it had always been there.

      I’m also thrilled that Trent wrote a song that was inspired, more or less, by this art.

      Art is like eating peanuts. One art leads to another!

      Thank you for your wonderful comment, Dave!

    1. You are welcome, Luisa. I had never heard of Schevchenko. I’m glad I found out about him.
      Thank you for stopping by, Luisa! 🌟✨💫

    1. It is a wonderful work of art! Thanks for your comment, Matt!
      Yes, I love reflections of street art in cars.
      There should be an unspoken rule, if you park by art, make sure you have a clean car!

  7. This is really a great mural, such good artwork, asthonishing, very nice post, rich details in the mural and your post Resa, this is really a great one, both post and mural, thanks for your many visits to render it so nicely.

    1. Thank you, Jean Marc!
      I was hypnotized by this mural. I had to have it in my collection.
      I think it is also a a timely find.
      Also, Trent’s song is perfect togo with it! xx

      1. Will have to go back to listen to it, was a bit in a rush this morning…NFL series…yes I am not a sports fan, but football yes and mainly I had to help prepare our pool, took me most of the day…:)

  8. This is a stunning mural, Resa! I love the colors and details. Do you know who it represents? I’m glad the artist was able to return to finish it. Thank you for sharing it. I looked up the artist, and I saw he has painted many murals in Toronto.

    The reflection shots are cool!

    1. Agree, the mural is fabulous. I’m not sure on the representation of the woman. I will be visiting the “Schevchenko Museum” in a few weeks, and I will inquire while I’m there.

      I did bump into someone who works there (parking her car), but she didn’t know.

      Yes, John Kuna does a lot of mural work around the west end of the city, mostly. It does take a car to get out there, but it’s not far. I hope to get out there in the spring. I could take TTC, but the murals can be a mile apart, so a car is better.

      In the early days of this blog, I did post a lot of his work. This is one of my faves. https://graffitiluxandmurals.com/2013/06/03/the-old-swimming-hole/

      Love reflections of art in cars. Of course they need to be somewhat clean. 🤭

        1. Oh! I have to look that up!

          I got a new cat. Did I mention it already? 51/2 year old female. Her owner is going into a care home.
          K the new cat ran under the couch. She came out and hid behind a door. I found her and pet her… That went ok. Then I tried to pick her up and in her terror punctured my right hand in 4 spots. Hand is messed up.. no drawing or sewing. Hand is SWOLLEN . She is in new hiding place.
          Poor thing is terrified!

  9. Oh my. Describing this mural as intricate seems like an understatement. You made me laugh realizing it’s located on the back wall of a museum honoring a Ukrainian artist! Thumbs up to the find .. and for remembering it while the artist healed.

    1. It is a wonderful work. Remember it…I couldn’t forget it!

      I was almost annoyed his healing was taking so long…but only almost.

      Glad I made you laugh. I still chuckle thinking about how I had been there a half dozen times, and not seen the sign.

      Thanks for having a look at this masterpiece, Frank!

  10. Wow, Resa, this mural really takes my breath away. The flower details of the bird are so incredibly vibrant and detailed! There’s such grace, poise and beauty here, which really lifts the heart and senses, plus I love the bird-theme running throughout. Thanks so much for sharing! It’s a joy to be able to appreciate this art! 💜🕊️🎨💜

    1. I adore the bird theme too, Ada. The pheasant is a detail, and there is detail within that detail.
      It’s a mind blowing piece of art…in an alley.

      All the doves make peace & love seem like they are just over the horizon.

      So much beauty, you are right!
      It’s a joy to be able to share it!
      💜🕊️🎨💜

  11. The mural is beautiful! So much intricate detail in it. I can well imagine that you couldn’t get enough pictures of it! I know you put a huge amount of thought into creating the post and getting the exact right photo and the right layout. You did a wonderful job. Thanks for sharing 🙂 Also thanks fro including my song.

    1. I went back and finally figured it out – she has a needle and thread. The thread disappears under her other hand, so I can’t tell where it is coming from/what she is sewing/mending.

      1. Ahh, great spotting Trent. I had not seen the needle, or at least it didn’t register. There must be some kind of meaning. I’ll be going to the museum in February or March. I will ask about it then.

        Thanks for pointing that out!

        1. She is working on that white piece of cloth with red designs that is in her lap. She is doing the red designs. It is also a folk art museum, so that is pointing to the folk art. She is sad, but part f her expression is her concentration on her work, which perhaps keeps her from thinking about the evils of the world…

          1. Ahh, yes!
            The folk art embroidery is lavish. I’ve always adored Ukrainian and polish embroidery. To this day I have to credit my Polish grandmother with teaching me to thread a needle, string buttons and sort of make clothes for my doll.

            Some things I learned in love flourished into art…

            1. From your grandmother teaching you to thread a needle to what you have done with a big part of your life – quite the adventure from such a simple start! It is great that what you loved did turn into art 🙂

        2. Oh yes, and the light from behind her headdress turns it into a halo and the white doves of peace are flying from that halo. Not 100% sure of the symbolism here, but it is there pretty deep, as it is in the rest of the mural. Can’t wait until you find out more about it! It is fascinating.

          1. I adore the halo and doves. I have been musing about that! The headdress is fascinating, and I want to learn more about that.
            I will do an update post about my trip to the museum, and what I learned there!

            1. The mural is so cool and there are so many interesting aspects of it – I hope they have a lot of info about it there! I am sure, even without the mural, the museum visit will be great 🙂

          2. LOL! Maybe you’ll have a song for that? (my museum trip follow up post)
            BTW, do feel free to comment n comments. There have been a few about your song.

            1. lol, maybe I can do a Prince style “When the Doves…” hmm, what do the doves do if not cry? Maybe “Let the Doves Fly”.
              I will stop by tomorrow and comment on comments 🙂

    2. Thank you, Trent.
      It seems like there have been a few “art” journeys you have joined me in. I find it exciting to not be alone in my madness.
      I suppose that’s why I like having guests on my blog.
      Also, a bazillion thanks for the song. It’s added so much to the post. It’s become a riches of arts, and messaging! 🌟

      OKAY, the new cat is coming in 2 hours. Gotta set up the litter!

        1. yay!! Art is a journey, for sure.
          She will be here any minute. Yes, pics and all. I’ve been so cat lonely. 😻
          She’s 51/2. Her person moved to a care home.

    1. You are welcome, Aladin, and thank you for your lovely comment. Yes, the only thing more colourful than my story, is the mural and its reflections! ❤️🌟❤️🌟

    1. I agree, John. Thank you for your lovely comment!
      The song truly puts a realistic dimension to the image. I’m honoured Trent let me use it in the post.
      Are those OXen I see in the pic? They have horns. They look like OXen. Subtle integration.
      🐂 🐂

    1. Yes! Art, art and more art!
      TOF, I was at the Art Gallery a couple of days ago to see the Tissot exhibit. Wow! His “Women of Paris” etchings have inspired me.
      I’m going to draw gowns from that era in pencil only, and try to make them look like faux etchings.

    1. It sure is mesmerizing to see this mural. I would gaze upon all and parts of it whenever I went.
      You have a fine time too, dear Martha!

    1. Yes! This mural is a beauty.

      Thank you, dear Holly. I agree Trent’s music is perfect for this. It really adds to the messaging.

      Okay… just sent you my first working sketch of RR – 1880’s!

      xoxoxoxoxo

    1. Yes, war is horrible.
      Trent’s song and its lyrics really drive home the reality in Ukraine right now. When the new president takes office, they might be up the creek.

      War, it’s always about power and money, in some form. Killing, raping and pillaging are not just from the old history books, they are still being written into the new history books.

      Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Brad!

    1. Agree, Dan!
      I adore the reflections. Best thing about cars is how they reflect street art. On that basis, people that park their cars by art, should have the decency to have their car washed first!
      🤭😂

  22. So unbelievably beautiful, Resa, but with an undertone of tragedy that’s beyond words. The face in mural looks mournful. Nearly 200 years ago, Schevchenko was targeted by the Russians, and now the whole country is in ruins at Russian hands – for no reason but the maniacal power of one man. And it seems the world isn’t brave enough to stop the murder of children, anywhere. Trent’s lyrics are so sad because of their truth.

    Beautiful photos, Resa. I loved the details and the refections. A gorgeous and moving post. Art is powerful.

    1. Art is wildly powerful.

      Trent’s song is so on target with this mural. He is so thoughtful and intelligent.

      I agree with everything you say.
      Now, with Putin’s lover coming into power, who knows which way the wind will blow, or what it will blow.
      I did not know who Schevchenko was until this mural. Art teaches, in many ways.

      Thank you, Diana! I waited a long time to make this post.
      I won’t be posting over it too, soon!

        1. It’s great that I want to leave it up because:
          I got a cat. 51/2 yrs, female, owner went into a care home.
          She ran under the couch when she got here. She came out and hid behind a door. I found her and pet her… That went ok. Then I tried to pick her up and in her terror punctured my right hand in 4 spots. Hand is messed up.. no drawing or sewing. Hand is SWOLLEN . She is in new hiding place.

          Sigh… A bit hard to type.

          1. If your had doesn’t get better quickly go to a doc. Cat bites can get infected easily. I needed an intravenous antibiotic when my cat bit me because I waited too long.
            Poor thing and poor you. It takes time.

  25. What an amazing mural, dahling. I can just imagine your sadness when it was finally finished. And Trent’s song is so fitting!

    Again, the reflection on the car… ah!

    xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

    1. Dahling!
      Yes, I would have gone back for the rest of my days, as the artist worked on it. Alas, it was finished and the book is over.

      Epilogue: I get to go to the Schevchenko Museum! (and reflect!)
      xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

    1. Thank you, Janet!

      Uch..I missed this comment. Haven’t been well. Major cat gouging on right hand and have been on antibiotics for a week and will be for at least another week.

      The incident has made me stupid! Sigh! x

  28. Wow, this mural is breathtaking!! The colors, textures, facial expression, everything is just stunning! I could see why you went back several times to admire this beauty, Resa!

    I love intricate murals, and you captured much of the details. That made sense that there is a Ukrainian mural behind the Schevchenko Museum! I gotta make sure to pay a visit if I happen to be in Toronto! it’s only a half-hour drive from my husband’s company’s office in Toronto’s Fashion District area.

    1. Ruth!

      Can’t believe I didn’t answer this. Of course much has slipped through my swollen fingers the past week.

      Ahh the Fashion district, lots of street art in that area. A half hour! 😂 Yes, middle of the night when there is no traffic. Public transport 45 minutes.

      I’ll be going to the museum next month Hopefully they will let me take photos, so I can do a follow up.

      I still can’t sew or draw, but typing is not bad.

      See you! xx

      1. Hey no worries, dear Resa!! You should be focusing on healing your hand.

        Ahah yeah, I think a half hour is what Google said but of course that would double during rush hour, believe me I’m from Jakarta where traffic is one of the worst in the world, so a half hour to 45 minutes is nothing. In Jkt, you’d have to set a side a whole darn day to fit in just 2-3 appointments!

        Oh that’s awesome that you’ll be going to the museum next month, hope your hand would be in a better condition by then. Take care, my friend!!

        1. Yeah, he hand… I thought it would be better by now, but it’s a long heal.
          Pill in 1/2 hour. Doctor follow up on Tuesday, when the pills run out. I hope it’s all good to go then. The antibiotics are hard on the tummy! xx

  29. The detail in the mural is just incredible. I’d be standing there with my mouth hanging open, not knowing what to look at first. I just listened to Trent’s song. A stinging indictment of the Ugly American.

    2. Liz, I have been somewhat remiss at answering comments properly, due to a sore hand.

      It really is a stunning mural, and Trent’s a doll for the song. I’m thrilled you got to see it, and thank you for your wonderful comment!

        1. Thank you, Liz! It’s a slow heal for sure!
          It’s time for my antibiotic in half an hour.
          I always knew my hands were my living, but when the right one blew up like the rubber glove balloon gag, it hit home like a wrecking ball.

  31. Oh My…… This is more than just a Mural… It is like looking up at the ceilings of the Sistine Chapel and devouring the details of Michelangelo’s paintings…

    So much attention to detail and the depth, the colour, the perspective. I spent a while going through your slide shows, and I visited the Museum link..

    I am so pleased the artist recovered from his accident to be able to finish this precious piece of art Resa…

    The Song and Lyrics poignant as the parts of the world where there has been so much suffering .
    I pray Peace may prevail in ALL hearts around the world..

    I am delighted you kept returning and returning Resa tos how us the finished Masterpiece..

    Have a very peace filled Sunday xx 🙏💖

    2. Yes, precious is a good word for this mural. Thank you, Sue! I’m happy the artist recovered, too. I’m also thrilled about Trent’s song. He is very creative and his heart is in a good place.

      Yes, PEACE. It seems so simple.
      War is a lot of ugly work and yields naught for the peasants but suffering and heartache.

      Sue, I am elated you got to see this mural. There may be a follow up post in a few months, after U visit the museum!

      Have a peace filled week!
      💓🕊🤍🌟

      1. Thank you Resa… Trent is very talented and holds much compassion…
        War serves no one but the profit makers of control…

        Sending love and Blessings Resa… and look forward to more 🙂 xx ❤

  33. Like a great book . . I love that Resa and it’s so spot on perfect for this venture. The mural is worthy of many “reads” and each time, it evokes something different. These walks of yours are poetry in motion, tell you what.

    1. Poetry in motion…Thank you, Marc!
      Yes, Resa needs to stay in motion.
      I’m in a whole thought world about motion now. Thank you! (hmm a Frank reflection thingy)

      I’l spare you my dribbles, but at the end it seems to be all coming down to art(s) for me.

      That’s just me!
      MUAH!

  34. Hi Resa, this mural in terms of detail rivals the Bayeux Tapestry! It is phenomenal. And to think it was left unfinished for so long due to the unfortunate accident but left untouched is amazing. If it had been in my town it probably would have been vandalized.
    Like the good book you refer to, I will have to keep coming back to re-view these great pictures – thanks for sharing.

    1. I checked out pics of the Bayeux tapestry. It’s stunning.

      Well, Tyeth, making trips to the mural was fun while it lasted.

      Now, I get to visit the Schevchenko Museum. It’s not over, Yet!

      My pleasure to share, and I’m glad you got t see it!

  35. Hi Res. Omg, this mural is so intricate and spectacular. I would love to know where this museum is???

    P.S. I just bought your book. You multi-talented human. ❤ xox

    1. Debby!

      Thank you for buying the book! The free PDF has a tweaked ending… Is it better? Maybe, maybe not. I like it better, but the story is NOT changed.

      The Museum is on Bloor St. West between Dundas West and Keele.

      Well…human anyway! I just like being creative. I never know what’s going to grab my fancy next.

      Thak you for your lovely words! xoxo💖💖

      1. Wow, that’s amazing. When I’m down in that neck of the woods again, I’d love to see it.
        And about your book. Yes, I know there was a free download, but I didn’t know there was a book until I saw Robbie’s post. I like to read on my Kindle, and also support author friends. I appreciate the download has a tweaked ending. Be sure when I read, I will download then and check out the alternate ending and let you know my thoughts, and will share my review, happily. Hugs 💚💜❌⭕❌

  36. Resa, you find so many wonderful murals, each uniquely beautiful… but this may be my favorite. I can imagine watching it progress — no wonder you kept going back. Congrats to Trent on the song. My heart breaks every time I think about Ukraine…

    Congratulations again on Robbie’s review. I hope your hand is better today. Big hugs.

    2. Thank you, Teagn!

      I adore the mural. I’ll be heading to the Schevchenko Museum, as soon as the weather warms up a tad. It was -15c when I went to the doc today.

      I can walk to the museum, but it just needs to be a titch above freezing.

      I know… poor Ukraine. Uch… Why war?

      Thanks about Robbie’s review! I love it! HUGS!

  37. Heart stopping photos. The colors, the intricacy of the work in close up, and the reflections shining! Lions, and tigers, and bears! Oh, my!

    Brilliant work. And a special thank you to Trent for leading me here.

    1. Oh yes, thank you to Trent!

      I adore when he lends his music to one of my posts.

      This is truly a stunningly beautiful mural.

      Thank you for pooping by to see it, Violet!

  38. What a fantastic Wall Resa!! Interesting to know as well the story behind. Some people have talent and are good at making it available for all to see. Thank you for sharing.

    1. Yes, poor Ukraine. This mural speaks to its glory.
      Putin speaks to its unwillingness to be subservient to Russia.
      4 more days, and the Oligarchs take over America.

        1. A surprise? Oh goody! Not.
          It’s not just the stain… which apparently no stain remover can get out… baffles dry cleaners around the world…
          But this year is off to an ODD start.

    1. It is a beautiful mural. Some of the intricate detail work reminds me of Eastern European traditional Easter Egg painting.
      Unfortunately many Ukrainians are once again being displaced by a war not of their making.
      I’m happy you got to see this!

  42. Each word and each mural is just like reading a good book and so very touching. So beautiful and sad, Resa! My heart… always with them and breaks. I love Trent’s song. Thanks for sharing!!!!! Hugs and love my friend 🌹

    1. Ohh, thank you, Cindy!
      Your comment is wonderful.
      It was journey waiting for this mural to be finished. My journey was a joy. Unfortunately the journey the Ukraine is on is harsh.
      My heart is with them.
      Trent’s song is fabulous! 🌟🌹- Hugs!

      1. You’re so very welcome, Resa. I can imagine and I keep hearing the Beatle song in my head with it. Mine too and it sure was! Hugs and love and your book.. the cats out of the bag!!!! Yes to that!!! 🌹

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