When Russia invaded Ukraine in February, Leniuk, a first generation Canadian-Ukrainian, knew he wanted to do something to help.
As a sculptor, he decided on creating and auctioning a unique piece.
All the pieces Leniuk carves are drawn by hand, though because he wanted to get this one done quickly he searched the internet for a silhouette of a sunflower, Ukraine’s national flower.
He found a silhouette he liked and learned it was drawn by a Russian artist, who completely supported Leniuk’s intentions.
Leniuk facilitated the auction through his social media, with bids coming through direct messages, with the auction closing Monday at 4 p.m.
By Monday morning the bidding was at about $1,500, but soon a bidding war began.
“There were two bidders that were upping it by about $100 every half hour or so,” he said. “I was getting stressed out. I always feel bad because not everyone can win.”
With about three minutes left in the auction and two bidders competing, a third bidder offered $3,000, says Leniuk.
“I was floored,” said Leniuk. “I couldn’t update my sites quick enough.”
One bidder dropped out, while the second proposed an idea to Leniuk.
They suggested that Leniuk ask the winning bidder if he could make a second sunflower piece, which they would purchase for $3,000.
The winning bidder agreed, which means Leniuk has sold two pieces at $3,000.
“He was happy to go along with that proposal,” said Leniuk. “As long as he got the first piece, only two were ever made and that his was certified as the original.”
Both winning bidders requested that they remain anonymous.
The additional money was donated by friends, family and supporters on Leniuk.
“I had really modest expectations, but it snowballed into something that was bigger than I ever expected.”
