the pain

of others

ar t i s t s r es pondi ng
t o t he i mpact s of
war + conf l i ct

artwork by Ilya Sprindzhuk

 contents
foreword
.
acknowledging suffering
.
reflections on conflict
management
.
protesting suffering
.
concluding remarks
.
featured artists
.
contributors + project
supporters
 foreword

In this collection, 'the pain of others,' we embark on a

profound journey, exploring diverse perspectives and
artistic expressions that unveil the intricate relationship
between art and our response to the aftermath of
conflict. Beyond mere visual allure, the artworks within
these pages act as poignant messengers, delivering
urgent pleas for systemic reform, the preservation of
connections in conflict-affected communities, and a
collective appeal for humanity in the face of
unspeakable atrocities. Influenced by Susan Sontag's
work, we emphasize the significance of art
representation and authentic engagement as essential
tools for processing the complexities of warfare. We
firmly believe, echoing Sontag's insights, that art carries
a duty to effectively understand and communicate the
pressing need to safeguard our global community. This
collection encourages reflection on the profound impact
of conflict on our shared humanity.
acknowledging
suffering
 acknowledging
suffering

Art possesses a unique power to transcend

language barriers and establish connections on
an emotional level. In this chapter, artists
across various mediums leverage their
creations to capture a pivotal aspect of Susan
Sontag's philosophy: the understanding that
when using images to depict pain, it is crucial
to recognize that the viewer's perspective
profoundly influences their response to the
depiction. Mere portrayal of the general
horrors of war does not elicit a singular,
predictable reaction, especially when the
depiction involves another person's suffering
rather than one's own.
In this context, art becomes a cultivated tool,
a means to more effectively engage with the
atrocities and vulnerabilities inherent in war.
The artists in this chapter aspire to delve into
these complexities by exploring vulnerability,
authenticity, and subjectivity, offering a
genuine glimpse into the horrific impacts of
conflict.
 "Photographs of the
suffering and
martyrdom of a
people are more than
reminders of death,
of failure, of
victimization. They
invoke the miracle of
survival"

Susan Sontag
Staines, Rima. (2023). The Hands of Death and
Life, [pencil on paper]
Rima Staines, based in Devon, UK, crafts an
otherworldly realm through myth, magical
realism, and folk arts. She brings profound
emotion to her creations, as seen in "The
Hands of Death and Life" (2023), a poignant
response to the strife in Palestine and Israel.
Through pencil on paper, she questions power
dynamics, illustrating trauma's cyclical nature.
Staines, showcased globally, channels her
fascination with the liminal into a visual chapel
of misfits and magicians. A finalist in the 'Best
Artist' category at the 2018 World Fantasy
awards, her work transcends boundaries,
offering a glimpse into an ethereal
iconography that seeks to heal and connect.
Morgaine, Manuela. (2021).
"FOR WAAD," [Film Stills].
Morgaine, Manuela. (2021).
"FOR WAAD," [Film Stills].
Morgaine, Manuela. (2021).
"FOR WAAD," [Film Stills].
Morgaine, Manuela. (2021).
"FOR WAAD," [Film Stills].
Manuela Morgaine, a Prix de Rome recipient in
scenography, is a versatile artist. As a writer,
visual artist, and film director, she leads the
Envers Company, focusing on multidisciplinary
works since 1991. Her extensive portfolio
includes literature, radio creations, and
internationally recognized films like "Foudre."
"FOR WAAD" is a cinematic letter echoing the
film POUR SAMA by Waad Al Kateab, capturing
pre-war Syria. Composed of archives from
2005-2007, it juxtaposes traumatic scenes
with the living and cultural heritage. A
cinematic transplant, it seeks to revive cities
and their inhabitants frozen in time, bridging
the abyss carved by a decade-long war.
Full Video: http://www.enverscompagnie.com/
Sprindzhuk, Ilya. (2022). "Divine," [acrylic on
glued paper].
Ilya Sprindzhuk, from Warsaw, Poland, delves
into the complexities of presence, insecurity,
and the right to be heard through his
captivating artworks. Originally recognized for
his aesthetically pleasing canvases in the
Belarusian art community, Ilya experienced a
transformative shift. The 2022 piece "Divine,"
an acrylic on glued paper measuring 140x100
cm, exemplifies this evolution. Departing from
conventional beauty, Ilya's work now
challenges norms, leaving ontological traces
within social frameworks. Studying New Media
Art at the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, he
explores new media practices and
installations, reflecting a profound departure
from his earlier focus and exploration of
deeper, more meaningful artistic expression.
Muñoz, Lola. (2023). "The Cosmic Traveler"
[Collage and Oil on Wood].
Artist Lola Muñoz, based in Valencia, Spain,
intertwines nature and mythology to create
captivating artworks. With a deep connection
to indigenous cultures and a focus on personal
healing, Lola's art celebrates the beauty and
interconnectedness of the natural world. Her
2023 piece, "The Cosmic Traveler," elegantly
blends collage and oil paint on wood. It calls
for introspection, urging viewers to seek inner
peace as a means to transform our world of
conflict into one of love and empathy. Lola's
work inspires us to embrace the sacred
connection with our land and to find resilience
in our lives by looking within.
Sagel. (2023). "Praying" [oil on linen canvas].
Kazakhstan artist Sagel’s painting "Praying,"
captures the silent strength of women
worldwide, using oil on linen canvas to
symbolize their prayerful resistance against the
fragility of life in times of war and conflict.
Her large-format canvases act as portals into
a realm shaped by spiritual, occult, esoteric,
pagan, philosophical, and psychological
influences—a continuous journey of self-
reflection and exploration.
Del Vedova, Liliana. (2023). "Soul
Connections," [Large Format 4x5,
Ferricyanide].
Artist Lola Muñoz, based in Valencia, Spain,
intertwines nature and mythology to create
captivating artworks. With a deep connection
to indigenous cultures and a focus on personal
healing, Lola's art celebrates the beauty and
interconnectedness of the natural world. Her
2023 piece, "The Cosmic Traveler," elegantly
blends collage and oil paint on wood. It calls
for introspection, urging viewers to seek inner
peace as a means to transform our world of
conflict into one of love and empathy. Lola's
work inspires us to embrace the sacred
connection with our land and to find resilience
in our lives by looking within.
 "to remember
everything is a form of
madness."
Brian Friel from
Translations
Ganaj, Vladimír. (2023). Refugees (Top), Mass
Murder (Bottom) [Pencil on Paper, A4].
Vladimír Ganaj, hailing from Prešov, Slovakia,
delves into the profound interactions between
characters, portraying them in dramatic and
intense poses. Through his pencil on paper
artworks like the explores the primal themes of
sex , brutality and combat, highlighting their
intertwined nature. This revelation draws from
both formal visual similarity and internal
connections, reflecting the intensity and
purpose behind these interactions. Ganaj's
work resonates with Erich Fromm's insights,
emphasizing the link between male self-
assertive aggression and relationships.
Alabbadi, Ahmed. (2023). Memories for Sale,
[Digital].
Ahmed Alabbadi, an emerging experimental
photographer from Aden, Yemen, explores the
profound impact of war in his project
"Memories for Sale." His work serves as a
visual journey through the hidden stories of
conflict, depicting personal and societal
struggles. With two years of experience as a
fashion photographer for GLOBAL BRAND 361,
Ahmed blends experimentation and poignant
storytelling in his work. Born in 2004, he is not
only a skilled artist but also an art project
manager and freelancer, offering a unique
perspective on the intersection of art and
personal experience.
Clennell, Lynette. (2016). "Pietà," [Collage].
ALynette Clennell, is a South African Italian
Collage artist, who merges her passion for art
and peace activism in "Pietà" (2016). This
collage, featuring Raphael's Madonna
embracing a child from Eisenstein's anti-war
film, underscores Clennell's commitment to
social commentary. The poppy symbolism,
covering one eye, signifies the cost of conflict.
Inspired by Dada, Clennell's work aligns with
her role as an art teacher, promoting dialogue
on peace.
Satura, Pink. (2023). Liberty, [Analog Collage,
30x40 cm].
In "Liberty," Pink Satura explores the dichotomy
of civilization constructed upon a foundation
of bones. The analog collage technique
becomes a visual metaphor, piecing together
fragments of existence to unveil the underlying
structure of our societal framework. Pink
Satura, hailing from Kaliningrad, Russia,
embarked on the artistic journey in 2020, with
a background in art school. After years away
from the art scene, 2020 marked a return for
Satura, whose style is characterized by a
fusion of pop art and pop surrealism. "Liberty"
serves as a striking commentary on the
complex and often unsettling underpinnings of
human civilization.
Butenop, Olga. (2023). Isle of The Dead,
[Painting].
Olga Butenop's 2023 "Isle of The Dead" starkly
addresses the pain and loss surrounding the
immense scale of death in the current warfare
states. Her work captures the suffering,
emotional toll and the burden countless people
are facing globally. Olga Butenop is a Russian
artist. She was born in Moscow, Soviet Union.
Now Olga lives and works in Tbilisi, Georgia
and her artistic narratives both explore her
reflection of her homeland and a universal call
for awareness.
Vorona, Iryna. (2023). Life is Eternal, [Paper,
Charcoal Pencil, 100x75 cm]
In her evocative series, Iryna Vorona explores
the fragility of daily life amid the ongoing
conflict in Ukraine. As a forced migrant,
currently residing in Germany, Vorona's work
delves into the impact of war on ordinary
individuals. Through collective portraits, she
symbolizes unity and indomitability, portraying
the strength of spirit and love that propels
people forward in their struggle. Born in
Ukraine, Vorona holds a Ph.D. in Culture and
Art, and her multidisciplinary practice includes
video documentation, books, and international
exhibitions. Her art serves as a powerful
reflection on the resilience of the human spirit
amid adversity.
 "perhaps the only
people with the right
to look at images of
suffering … are those
who could do
something to
alleviate it. … The
rest of us are
voyeurs, whether or
not we mean to be"
Susan Sontag
 reflections
on conflict
management
 reflections on
conflict
management

In considering the role of art as a tool for conflict

management reflection, Susan Sontag's perspective
offers a nuanced examination of the power
dynamics embedded in visual representations of
war. We foster the belief that artists can underscore
the importance of approaching conflict with a
critical eye. Art can evoke empathy and
understanding, it also carries the risk of
aestheticizing or sanitizing the harsh realities of
conflict.
Examining how artists navigate the delicate balance
between raising awareness and potentially
exploiting the subject matter is crucial. Art, a
double-edged sword, can foster dialogue and
introspection while also being susceptible to
manipulation and oversimplification. This chapter
examines international artists’ works through the lens
of their exploration of the relationship between art
and conflict. Their insights contribute to
contemporary discussions on using creative
expression to foster reflection, understanding, and
effective conflict management.
 "War is elective.
It is not an inevitable
state of affairs.
War is not the weather."
Susan Sontag
Butenop, Olga. (2023). #NoWar, [Film Still:
Digitally Animated film, 10:18].
Butenop, Olga. (2023). #NoWar, [Film Still:
Digitally Animated film, 10:18].
Olga Butenop's 2023 digitally animated film,
"#NoWar," starkly addresses the devastating
impact of conflict, inspired by Russia's
aggression against Ukraine. As a powerful
commentary on the suppression of free
expression in Russia, the title itself challenges
oppressive restrictions, revealing the harsh
reality that even advocating for peace can
lead to imprisonment. By reversing Soviet
military songs, Butenop transforms symbols of
victory into a haunting soundtrack for a world
grappling with the repetition of war. The film
captures the disheartening journey from
darkness to darkness, highlighting the ongoing
cycle of war. Butenop's artistic narrative is
both a personal reflection on her homeland
and a universal call for awareness.
Full Video: https://youtu.be/ozIWGu1hLko
 "Against Hatred," Kolyshkina,
Maria. (2000). Etching, 40/50.
Maria Kolyshkina, a graphic artist and
illustrator based in Saint-Petersburg, uses
original printing techniques to convey powerful
messages in her work. Focusing on the impact
of historical events, particularly the start of
World War II, her art serves as a bridge
between cultures, fostering dialogue and unity.
Through pieces like "Against Hatred,"
Kolyshkina aims to transform the 1st of
September, historically a symbol of division,
into a day of reconciliation and understanding.
Kolyshkina's works, including illustrations for
impactful projects like the Mercedes-Benz
unique field guide, reside in private collections
and prestigious institutions worldwide.
 "something becomes
real – to those who are
elsewhere, following it
as ‘news’ – by being
photographed. But a
catastrophe that is
experienced will often
seem eerily like its
representation"
Susan Sontag
Rabkina, Elena. (2023). "Belarusian
Dream," [Acrylic on porcelain].
Elena Rabkina, a Belarusian artist and activist
currently based in Europe, combines her
diverse background in art, journalism, and
psychology to craft impactful works of social
illustration and public art. Focused on themes
like ecology, urbanism, social justice,
migration, and activism, Rabkina's art serves as
a powerful tool for social commentary. Her
acclaimed piece, "Belarusian Dream" (2023),
captures the tumultuous 2020 protests in
Belarus, symbolizing the nation's collective
yearning for change. The shattered porcelain
plate, a cultural symbol of good fortune,
reflects Rabkina's hope for a renewed Belarus
amidst political upheaval, a sentiment
intensified by her personal journey as a
political refugee.
Cavanagh, Sandra. (2023). "Drawings of
War 4," [Pen and ink on paper, 51 x 36
cm; 20 x 14 in].
 Cavanagh, Sandra. (2023). "The Death of
Hector," [Oil on canvas, 152.5 x 183 cm; 60 x
72 x 1.5 in].
Cavanagh, Sandra. (2023). "Death of Hector
II," [Oil on canvas, 183 x 183 cm; 72 x 72 in].
Brooklyn-based artist Sandra Cavanagh
creates powerful works like "The Death of
Hector" (2023) that examine vibrant and
deeply saturated conceptual narratives that
explore sociopolitical events, pain and
suffering during warfare, and loss of innocence
in transgenerational stories. Cavanagh's urgent
series, like "Drawings of War" further visually
annotate visceral reactions to memories and
current concerns. The dramatic fusion of form
and message in pieces reflects her intent to
showcase the severity and the intensity of the
impacts of conflict through thought-proving
works.
Tettamanti, Ádám. (2023). Incursion, [Acrylic
on Canvas, 140 x 200 cm].
Tettamanti Ádám's "Incursion" unveils a surreal
(post)apocalyptic realm, intertwining everyday
actions with bizarre, absurd elements. These
paintings transcend spatial and temporal
boundaries, portraying the last days of a
parallel world or the collapse of familiar
civilization. Mythical creatures intermittently
emerge, evoking a return to primordial chaos.
Ádám, educated at the Hungarian University of
Fine Arts, has exhibited extensively in group
and solo shows, earning the Rékassy Csaba
Award in 2007. His latest solo exhibition,
"Terra Cognita," at Klauzál13 Gallery,
showcases his captivating exploration of
imaginative landscapes and speculative
futures.
Karpachova, Tatsiana. (2022). Protect Your
Woman from Your Darkness, [Paper, Colour
Pencils, 43 x 30 cm].
Tatsiana Karpachova, born in Minsk, Belarus,
graduated from the Belarusian Academy of
Arts in 2017. A recipient of the Elizabeth
Greenshields Foundation grant in 2018 and
2020, she participated in Artist-in-Residence
programs globally. Her art serve as a diary
exploring vulnerability amid emigration,
psychotherapy, and the impact of brutal wars
on the artist's family. Tatsiana Karpachova
weaves personal and transpersonal elements,
inspired by Judith Lewis Herman's concept of
mourning as the only just response to loss. The
artwork on mourning is a poignant contribution
to the collective experience of trauma, urging
empathy and action.
 Ilyashenka, Sviatlana (2022).
"Unbreakable Ukraine! Without light, but
without you! (without Russian fascists)"
[Gouache, 21cm x 30cm].
Sviatlana Ilyashenka, a talented artist from
Belarus now residing in Poland, creates
emotionally charged artworks that blend colors
and techniques to convey feelings and moods.
Her preferred mediums are gouache and oil,
used on paper and canvas. Sviatlana's art is
deeply inspired by her travels and explores
architecture and landscapes. Her work reflects
a commitment to supporting social causes,
with pieces dedicated to Ukraine and the
struggle for freedom in Belarus. Sviatlana's
paintings have earned recognition in
international competitions, including the
prestigious "Golden Bee." Her art not only
captivates with its beauty but also carries a
powerful message of resilience and solidarity.
Hussein, Sarah. (2023). The Dream
[Oil Painting].
Sarah Hussein is an Egyptian artist, known for
her captivating blend of reality and
imagination in her works. "The Dream," a 2023
oil painting on canvas, measures 100x70 and
portrays a giant woman peacefully asleep in a
surreal land. This work explores the challenges
of finding refuge and the flux of homes during
conflict. Sarah's art has earned recognition on
the international stage, with exhibitions and
awards in Italy, Egypt, India, Taiwan, UAE, and
the USA. Her art has been shortlisted for the
Alpine Fellowship Visual Art Prize (2022), and
she has received awards in various
competitions, demonstrating her exceptional
talent and creative vision. Sarah's work invites
viewers to explore the concepts of home and
safety through this surreal imagery and
dreamlike world, leaving a lasting impression.
Cox, Arica. (2022). "La Casa,"
[Acrylic on Canvas, 9 x 7].
Arica Cox, a visual artist with seven years of
experience, explores profound societal issues
through her work. In "La Casa" (2022), Cox
delves into the concepts of home and suffering
in conflict aftermath, particularly the impact
on children. The piece sheds light on the
neglect of crucial issues such as disrupted
education and trauma, perpetuating a cycle of
neglect in the post-war scenario. Cox's art
also addresses the pervasive chaos among the
younger generation due to society's increasing
reliance on virtual platforms, emphasizing the
detrimental effects on real-life experiences,
social interactions, mental health, and
personal development. With a background in
vibrant acrylic paintings and intricate
drawings, Cox's immersive artworks provoke
thought and evoke emotions, reflecting her
dedication to merging culture, creativity, and
social impact.
Cvejić, Ana. (2023). "Democracy" [Mix media
on paper, 110 x 86 cm].
Ana Cvejić, a Serbian artist hailing from
Belgrade, uses her creations to champion the
marginalized, giving voice to those often
unheard. Her art serves as a testament to the
diminishing rights and freedoms in society, with
a particular focus on the plight of the "little
people." Cvejić's artistic journey includes
residencies in Barcelona, Belgium, and the
United Arab Emirates, and she's also
participated in six art colonies. Cvejić's
artistic pursuits are a testament to her
commitment to amplifying the voices of the
unheard and underserved.
Loprete, Mario. (2022). Ukranian Ice Cream
[Concrete Sculpture].
Mario Loprete, based in Catanzaro, Italy, at 55
years old, is a passionate artist who shares his
notable work, "Ukrainian Ice Cream". It is a
2022 concrete sculpture of real-size
proportions, encapsulating the melting flag
colours and fragile state of the nation,
surrounded by permanent concrete. Loprete's
art journey is an intricate dance between
painting and sculpture, where each medium
represents a different facet of his creative
expression. His concrete sculptures serve as
repositories of his memories and experiences.
Dumina, Iryna (2023r). ""Peace for
Ukraine"" [Drawing].
Artist Iryna Dumina, a teacher and passionate
artist from Ukraine, uses her work to advocate
for peace and freedom. Her drawing, "Peace
for Ukraine," originally intended to convey
peace, has a powerful message. Iryna's artwork
"Peace and Freedom for Palestine" serves as a
heartfelt response to the ongoing conflict in
Palestine. With a strong belief in non-violent
conflict resolution, she calls for an end to the
Palestinian suffering and emphasizes the
importance of peace and freedom. Iryna's art
reflects her commitment to global harmony and
empathy for those affected by conflict,
including her homeland, Ukraine. She joins the
exhibition to express solidarity and support for
those experiencing hardship, both in Ukraine
and Palestine.
 Rofi, (2021). Blockade
[Mixed media on Canvas].
Rofi, a mixed-media artist, presents "Blockade"
(2021) in his portfolio. This striking 122 x 153
cm canvas embodies the struggles faced
during the COVID pandemic, drawing poignant
parallels with global conflicts. The artwork
metaphorically depicts how conflicts, like a
blockade, sever connections, restrict
resources, and disrupt lives. Rofi's work serves
as a powerful reminder of the enduring
hardships faced by those trapped in perpetual
struggle, highlighting the need for empathy
and understanding in a world where adversity
is not evenly distributed.
Solza, Irca. (2014-2023). "Bureaucracy of
Miracle," [interactive virtual installation].
Irca Solza, is an artist-researcher, and feminist
based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, presents
"Bureaucracy of Miracle" (2014-2023). This
piece challenges conventional narratives
through its synthetic bureaucratic horror
project, offering a virtual exploration of
existential dimensions often overlooked in
discussions about war, power, and miracles. By
intertwining poetic texts with visual elements,
she disrupts the linearity of time, allowing for
illogical transactions at various points. Solza's
unique approach combines corporeal and
metaphorical situations, as seen in her
engagement with propaganda stories that
intertwine with the symbolic destruction of
influential apparatuses.
"To the militant,
identity is
everything."
Susan Sontag
protesting
suffering
 protesting
suffering

In contemplating art as a tool and its role in activism

to protest suffering, Susan Sontag's perspective
provides valuable insights. Sontag recognized for
her discerning analyses at the intersection of
aesthetics and socio-political issues, would likely
emphasize the potential of art as a potent
instrument for societal critique and change. Thus,
when wielded thoughtfully, art serves as a dynamic
means to amplify marginalized voices, drawing
attention to human suffering and injustices.
The artists in this chapter engage in activism with
sincerity & and highlight the ethical responsibility of
individuals, government officials and communities to
contribute meaningfully to societal awareness and
change-making. Their works illuminate the dynamics
of art activism in the context of protesting human
suffering. Simply stating it ‘art ignites change’.
Ludwig, Eva. (2022). "The Critical Mass" [Oil
on Canvas, 65x100 cm].
Eva Ludwig, a versatile artist from Bonn,
Germany, utilizes both oil painting and
experimental animated film to explore
profound societal themes. Her artwork, "The
Critical Mass," delves into the stark disparity
between authoritarian rulers and their
governed masses. It powerfully illustrates the
unyielding control wielded by these leaders,
who stifle personal freedoms, manipulate
information, and employ military might to
showcase their dominance. Eva condemns their
misogyny, corruption, and warmongering
tendencies, highlighting the profound impact
they have on global peace, freedom, and
individuality.
van Boeckel, Pat. (2023). "Tinnen Soldaat"
[Video Still].
Pat van Boeckel, a Dutch artist, transitioned
from a distinguished career in documentary
filmmaking to create thought-provoking video
art. With documentaries broadcasted on Dutch
public television and festival showcases, he
has covered diverse topics, often with a
philosophical touch. Van Boeckel's video
installation explore the intricate relationship
between humanity and the impacts of conflict
through the 'building of'' soliders, emphasizing
lost values and identity for larger political
beliefs in contemporary life. He crafts
simplicity amid today's visual chaos, centering
on the experience of time and place in his
works. Notably, he projects his art onto objects
and buildings, adding layers of depth and
subverting expectations. Van Boeckel's fusion
of documentary techniques and video art
results in visually stunning, contemplative
pieces.
Full Video: https://vimeo.com/697019373
Melnikov, Valery. (2020). Paradise Lost,
[Photography].
Melnikov, Valery. (2020). Paradise Lost,
[Photography].
In this poignant photographic series, Valery
Melnikov captures the aftermath of the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, exploring the
fragile nature of peace and the enduring
impact of war. His work, "Paradise Lost," serves
as a documentary testament to the historical
upheaval in the region, drawing parallels with
the biblical myth of paradise lost. Melnikov, an
independent photographer with a career
spanning conflict zones worldwide, skillfully
navigates the complexities of war-torn
societies. His commitment to capturing the
human experience in the face of conflict is
evident in the numerous awards he has
received. "Paradise Lost" stands as a powerful
reminder of the ease with which harmony can
be shattered and the daunting challenge of
rebuilding what has been lost.
Najafi, Farzaneh. (2023). "Stop The War,"
[Performance (Video, Photography)].
Farzaneh Najafi, an Iranian artist, addresses
the echoes of war in her poignant
performance, "Stop the War" (2023). Born
amidst the Iran-Iraq conflict, Najafi draws a
painful connection to current events in
Ukraine. Inspired by Chinese artist Zhang Huan,
she orchestrates a two-hour and forty-minute
plea for peace. Her students meticulously
inscribe "Stop the War" using various brushes
and black ink, creating a powerful visual
statement. Through this artistic act, Najafi
transcends personal history, advocating for a
universal message against the ravages of war,
fostering solidarity, and urging the world to
unite in a collective call for an end to conflict.
Smykova, Diana. (2022-2023). "Emma"
from the 'Postcards Home' project,
[Digital/analogue photographs].
Smykova, Diana. (2022-2023). "Mubaral"
from the 'Postcards Home' project,
[Digital/analogue photographs].
Smykova, Diana. (2022-2023). "Veronika"
from the 'Postcards Home' project,
[Digital/analogue photographs].
Diana Smykova, an innovative visual artist,
seamlessly blends documentary and fine art
photography, enriching her projects with video
and text. Hailing from the Far Russian North,
Smykova delves into the Arkhangelsk region's
culture and her own identity, capturing
intimate stories of locals. Now a nomadic
creator, she draws inspiration from her travels,
exploring the theme of home across borders.
Her latest series, "Postcards Home," unravels
diverse narratives of migration, identity, and
trauma, questioning the essence of home.
Smykova, a member of Women Photograph and
the Russian Union of Photographers, skillfully
addresses social issues through introspective
contemplation and personal narratives.
Ruksha, Katsiaryna. (2023). "Watching my life
turning into ruins," [Digital collage].
Katsiaryna Ruksha a Belarusian artist currently
residing in Poland, brings forth "Watching my
life turning into ruins" (2023), a poignant
digital collage. Inspired by the distressing
missile attacks on Ukraine, this artwork serves
as a cathartic expression of the artist's
struggle to comprehend the profound emotions
surrounding the tragedy. Through the lens of a
woman witnessing her world crumble, the piece
conveys the visceral impact of conflict on
individuals and humanity. Ruksha, an emerging
collage artist, explores both analog and digital
mediums, infusing contemporary elements like
fashion and graffiti into her works. With a
portfolio showcased in various online
exhibitions, she captures the dynamic nuances
of modern existence, creating pieces that
reflect the vibrant energy and diversity of our
rapidly changing world.
 "violence turns
anybody subjected to
it into a thing"
Simone Weil
 Airam, Ica. (2023). Pulsand Distant un
Microb pe Versant, [acrylic, charcoal, silver
leaf on canvas, 120x110cm].
Airam, Ica. (2022). Meanwhile on the
Field, [acrylic on canvas, 101x76cm].
Ica Airam, an artist based in Montreal since
1996, weaves a powerful narrative through her
evocative paintings. Her recent series,
"Indigenous State of Pain," is a poignant
tribute to the resilience of those fighting for
indigenous rights and land. Through acrylic on
canvas, she explores the multifaceted nature
of global atrocities, prompting viewers to
confront systemic injustices and question the
possibility of justice and change. Airam's
extensive exhibition history, including notable
shows like "Cocorico" and "Northern Lights,"
reflects her commitment to social commentary.
Her art serves as a catalyst for conversations,
encouraging reflection and action towards a
more equitable future.
The Party of the Dead. (2023). Children’s
Day of the Dead, [Series of Photos
(Documentation of a street action)].
In this powerful series, The Party of the Dead,
an art activist group originating from Russia,
presents "Children’s Day of the Dead."
Documenting a street action dedicated to
International Children's Day, the work delves
into the core of war, highlighting infanticide
as both a harsh reality and a symbolic
justification. Originally referencing the Russian
military invasion of Ukraine, the art speaks
universally to the suffering of children in all
conflicts. Founded by artist and philosopher
Maxim Evstropov in 2017, The Party of the Dead
engages in "necro-activism," challenging
political and cultural necrophilia while
addressing the abuse of the dead by those in
power.
Berg, Jeffrey. (2023). The Consequences
of War, [Drawing].
Jeffrey Berg, an accomplished artist with a
lifelong dedication to drawing, presents "The
Consequences of War" to explore the enduring
human impact of conflict. Based at the 52 "O"
Street Studios, Berg's poignant drawing,
measuring 27" x 39", delves into the emotional
and physical scars left by war. His extensive
artistic journey includes exhibitions in
Washington, DC, reflecting a rich tapestry of
the human experience. Beyond his artistic
pursuits, Berg's diverse educational
background and professional roles in
community development and mental health
counseling underscore his commitment to
intertwining art with societal reflection and
service.
 "We can't imagine how
dreadful, how terrifying war
is; and how normal it
becomes. Can't
understand, can't imagine.
That's what every soldier,
and every journalist and aid
worker and independent
observer who has put in
time under fire, and had
the luck to elude the death
that struck down others
nearby, stubbornly feels.
And they are right."
Susan Sontag
 "…the war goes on
an ache in the bones
an ache in the gut
an ache in the heart."
Susan Sontag
 visit the
exhibition

ArtSteps: The Pain of Others

starvingartist.cargo.site/
the-pain-of-others
 concluding remarks

In 'the pain of others,' the amalgamation of

diverse perspectives and artistic prowess
provides a compelling vantage point to explore
the intricate relationship between art and our
connection to the repercussions of conflict.
Beyond the captivating visual appeal of their
creations, it is the poignant messages
embedded within them that carry the most
profound significance. Through the lens of
these artists, a collective yearning emerges to
articulate their experiences of trauma and a
pressing call for immediate systemic reform,
underscoring the paramount importance of
preserving our ties to communities and leaders
affected by conflict in our complex world.

The artworks stand as more than just

aesthetically impactful; they serve as a
resounding testament to the imperative of
humanity in the face of atrocious acts. They
urgently highlight the need to safeguard our
global community, emphasizing the importance
of protecting and nurturing connections amidst
the relentless challenges posed by conflict.
 featured artists

Ica Airam | Montreal, Canada

Olga Butenop | Tbilisi, Georgia
Vladimír Ganaj | Prešov, Slovakia
Sarah Hussein | Damietta, Egypt
Sviatlana Ilyashenka | Poland
Iryna Dumina | Kherson, Ukraine
Mario Loprete | Catanzaro, Italy
Eva Ludwig | Bonn, Germany
Manuela Morgaine | Paris, France
Lola Muñoz | Valencia, Spain
Rofizano | Singapore
Rima Staines | Devon, UK
Lynette Clennell | Italy
Arica Cox | Yangon, Myanmar
Farzaneh Najafi | Tehran, Iran
Elena Rabkina | Belarus
 featured artists

Liliana Del Vedova | Ottawa, Canada

Ilya Sprindzhuk | Warsaw, Poland
Pat van Boeckel | Netherlands
Maria Kolyshkina | Russia
Sandra Cavanagh | Brooklyn, USA
Katsiaryna Ruksha | Belarus
Irca Solza | Almaty, Kazakhstan
Diana Smykova | Cairo, Egypt
Jeffrey Berg | Washington DC, USA
Ahmed Alabbadi | Aden, Yemen
Vettka Kirillova | Tbilisi, Georgia
Iryna Vorona | Kyiv, Ukraine
Adam Tettamanti | Budapest, Hungary
Pink Satura | Kaliningrad, Russia
Tatsiana Karpachova | Tbilisi, Georgia
Valery Melnikov | Moscow, Russia
 contributors +
project supporters

The Starving Artist team would like to extend

heartfelt thanks to our invaluable contributors,
artists, and cover art artist Ilya Sprindzhuk.
Your unwavering dedication and contributions
have been instrumental in shaping this platform
into a powerful force for change.

To our artists, your work transcends visuals or

words; it is a profound reflection of lived
experiences, unfiltered emotions, and a deep
commitment to spark change. Through your art,
you have given a voice to marginalized
narratives and ignited essential conversations
that challenge existing systems.

In closing, for us it is not just about art; it is

about empowerment, connection, and change.
Together, we aim to encourage individuals to
explore art as a systematic tool for peace
activism and civic reform. We are truly united
in our commitment to driving transformation
within our society.

Thank you all!

Ally Zlatar and The Starving Artist Team

 the starving
artist

The Starving Artist Initiative is a platform that

empowers individuals through the creative arts,
emphasizing personal experiences. Our mission
is to foster authentic and open conversations,
aiming to drive change within existing systems.
We particularly strive to support emerging
voices in the creative arts, encouraging people
to explore and express their experiences
creatively. Our topics span various issues,
including well-being, gender rights, migrant
experiences, and climate action. Through
artistic expressions, exhibitions, publications,
workshops, and collaborative efforts, we
connect artists, individuals, and stakeholders
to ignite systemic reform.
For more information visit:
https://starvingartist.cargo.site/
"War tears, rends.
War rips open,
eviscerates.
War scorches.
War dismembers.
War ruins."
Susan Sontag