ONLINE EXHIBITION

Force Field a tribute to the women of Ukraine (3)

In early 2022, Bonnie began to explore the tradition of Motanka, which are made according to specific and longstanding customs and traditions. Their symbolic meaning, paired with the intentions of the creator are what facilitate the Motanka’s protective power. Bonnie stuffed the heads with wool for warmth, buckwheat for nourishment, beeswax and herbs for healing. Into each baba, Bonnie also placed a sunflower seed, the national flower of the Ukraine. The maidens are adorned with two necklaces for continued prosperity and a vinok – floral wreath symbolizing youth, feminine strength and freedom, and more recently, Ukrainian national pride.   

Image credit: Bonnie Conly creating motanka, 2021.