by: Rick Landers
Guitar International magazine is honored to present one artist’s support of the people of Ukraine, in their defense of their homeland, democracy and hard-won freedoms.
When asked about his flag art and, in particular, its timely emphasis on Ukraine and the indefensible Russian invasion, Jeff Bartels quickly agreed to offer us some comments on his art and his ideals.
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Rick Landers: I see you’ve designed guitar-country flag images in pursuit of your art, including an image of related to Ukraine’s national flag coupled with an image of a guitar. What came first, your image or the invasion by the Russian government?
Jeff Bartels: The image came first, I created it a few years ago. Even though it wasn’t created with this horrific Russian invasion in mind, I’m very happy if it’s seen as support for the Ukrainian people, who are an inspiration to the world right now.
Rick: Are you a guitar player, and if so, tell us about that side of your fine arts background?
Jeff Bartels: I’m not a guitar player, but I love music and play a little piano.
Rick: What other work or projects are you involved in that might conjoin your humanity interests and your art?
Jeff Bartels: My art often has social or political undertones. My most recent work was a series of oil paintings that examined the “post -truth” phenomena where facts and truth are distorted or dismissed in order to push a political agenda. This, unfortunately, seem to be happening to an alarming degree by Russia in this invasion of Ukraine.
Rick: Your image is a fine and honorable way to support freedom, have you other efforts where you combine your ambition and altruism?
Jeff Bartels: To be honest the image, along with others I have that incorporate the Ukrainian flag, was meant to show pride, not necessarily freedom. It has now taken on new meaning because Ukraine really does represent freedom and courage in these terrible days.
Jeff Bartels website: www.jeffbartels.com
Jeff Bartels Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeffbartelsar
