Ana Kuni’s kaleidoscopic characters fill the canvas, a stirring representation of the spirit of women. The Ukranian-born, Cape Town-based artist seeks to empower through her works. With the pervasiveness of gender-based violence coming to the fore, Kuni is using her skills to speak up and unite people against it.
“While living in South Africa, I saw growing violence towards women,” she says. “Art gave me a platform to create a sisterhood through conversation.” In 2019, Kuni created a piece to commemorate Uyinene Mrwetyana, a university student who was murdered. People added their messages of support and solidarity onto the canvas, reflecting the burgeoning movement for a safer society. “What I love about art is the ability to share this with others,” Kuni says. “It uplifts you on another level.”
Her determination to inspire people is embodied in the Warrior Woman collection, a celebration of strength and resilience. Using a combination of acrylic and spray paint, Kuni also portrays her work on denim jackets and metal canvases. Each piece is an image of power, and Kuni’s message is clear: “Mothers and grandmothers, sisters and daughters of the world, you’re all warriors.”
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