Remembrance Day is an important time for Canadian artist, illustrator, and coin designer Anna Bucciarelli.
“My grandparents and great-grandparents survived and fought through WWII in Ukraine, which deeply influences my perspective on remembrance,” she told Daily Hive in an interview.
The acclaimed artist is helping to honour veterans in a new way as the designer behind the Royal Canadian Mint’s colourful new Remembrance Day coin.
According to Bucciarelli, the collaboration on the $20 Canadian Silver Dollar coin began over a decade ago when the Mint reached out to her.
“I’ve been designing for the Royal Canadian Mint for over 10 years, creating more than 20 silver and gold coins,” Bucciarelli said. “The Mint initially approached me after seeing my personal work on my website—they felt my highly detailed style suited the intricate craftsmanship required for coin design.
Anna Bucciarelli
“My pieces range from delicate colour-plated designs like the Brilliant Cherry Blossom to larger, intricate coins with 3D elements, such as the Queen Rose and Holiday Train. Most of my work is showcased on my website and can also be found on the Mint’s site.”
The Ukrainian-born artist wanted to capture the resilience and solemn beauty of the poppy on the $20 Canadian silver coin, with three flowers shown from different angles and in various stages of bloom.
“The biggest poppy is prominently positioned above the ribbon, pointing upwards towards the sun,” Bucciarelli explained. “This is the biggest open flower, shown in full boom to symbolize strength and the prevailing power of life.
“The second flower is pointing down and serving as a visual reminder of the lives lost in war and the ongoing need to support those who have served in the armed forces. And the third flower is barely open and about to bloom, referencing the fact that poppies have the remarkable ability to thrive and bloom amidst adversity.”
Royal Canadian Mint
“Seeing the finished coin for the first time is always magical. The production process can take up to a year from initial design to minting, so there’s a sense of anticipation. Contributing to this coin feels meaningful, and I hope it brings honour to the legacy of all who served and continue to serve.”
Bucciarelli’s passion for the arts stretches back to her childhood, but she initially didn’t have plans to pursue it professionally.
“I studied finance and marketing at a business school in Toronto and worked in that field for years,” the teacher and YouTuber with over 360,000 followers on social media. “Art was my sanctuary, a way to unwind, but it was only later that I realized it could become my full-time career.”
Her painting style is inspired by her Ukrainian heritage, especially the Petrykivka tradition—a form of folk art that emphasizes floral and plant motifs. They have helped her create designs that have been featured on Canadian silver coins, Starbucks holiday cups, book covers, and murals.
Bucciarelli also recently published her first book, 101 Watercolor Secrets, which has been described as a great resource for those who love painting and want to explore watercolour techniques.
Anna Bucciarelli
“Art is a form of meditation for me — I feel most at peace in my studio. As an introvert, it’s the best way for me to communicate and express my inner world. Creativity is essential because it allows for introspection and growth, helping me connect with others through my work.”