WATCH: Vibrant mural in support of Ukraine unveiled

Wednesday 13 July 2022

A local muralist has transformed the wall of Romerils into a vibrant show of support for Ukraine.

Designed and delivered by Ben Robertson (aka. BORKA), the mural is visible to the public alongside the store on Dumaresq Street in St. Helier.

The piece was funded entirely by Romerils, and supported by ArtHouse Jersey, which introduced the company to Ben Robertson.

The mural celebrates Ukraine's unique culture, featuring national symbols of Ukraine such as the nightingale and sunflower, as well as other imagery that aims to reflect the struggle of the country’s people.

Video: A closer look at the mural celebrating Ukraine's unique culture. 

Ben Robertson said he was initially "apprehensive due to the sensitive subject", when he was first approached.

However, he said that "after spending two weeks researching Ukrainian culture, with the help of Jersey Library, Historian Howard Baker, and meetings with local Ukrainians and Russians, I began to understand the people of Ukraine and their rich culture."

“Whilst painting the mural the feedback was only positive, I even had people recognising the Ukrainian patterns as their ancestors' heritage."

Pictured: "Whilst painting the mural the feedback was only positive."

ArtHouse Jersey Director Tom Dingle congratulated Romerils on commissioning the piece and Ben Robertson on creating it.

“Ben Robertson’s (BOKRA's) incredible talent for visual messaging has been plain for all to see in everything he has produced for the island's walls over the years. This piece is absolutely without exception," he said.

Romerils Chair Mark Syvret explained why the company wanted to show its support for Ukraine.

Pictured: Romerils wanted to create a visual reminder of the importance of standing for freedom.

“The invasion of Ukraine has provoked an outpouring of support on the island," he said.

“As an island once occupied by enemy forces, we are  conscious of the importance of liberty, independence and identity and so we are thrilled that, in conjunction with ArtHouse Jersey, Ben Robertson (BOKRA) has designed this mural which celebrates Ukraine and its unique culture.

Mr Syvret added: "...We hope this artwork will not be appreciated just as a visual delight, but as a reminder of those nations enduring great loss and hardship.”