03/02/2025
During my mid-20s, I thrice had the opportunity to visit Ukraine, to meet and serve her people merely years free from Soviet reign, to eat her food, to experience her culture, to hear her music. Three of us even rollerbladed adventurously through streets and plazas of Kiev. One of us three was born and raised in that great land; the other two of us were fortunate to have a fluent Ukrainian speaker with us on this exciting exploratory excursion.
Ever since, I've remained fond of Ukraine, and a single whiff of dill transports me back instantly. Anytime I see blue and yellow, I recall the simplicity of Ukraine's flag (blue sky over fields of gold).
While driving through my Central Illinois homeland in my late 30s, I made this photograph as an homage to fond memories of all things Ukraine.
Early 2022, the Ukrainian people were attacked by a malevolent dictator neighboring Ukraine's eastern border attempting a hostile takeover that continues today.
This week, Ukraine again tops headlines around the world though for disconcerting reasons, leading to an archive dive for this photo and endearing reminiscence.
