alcohol markers, colored pencils, ink; 20×16″
“In my art class, we were given a Social justice project. Through research, I learned about all the difficulties and trials many people have had to endure. Domestic abuse is violence committed by someone in the victim’s domestic circle. Did you know that in one minute, 20 people are experiencing domestic abuse/violence in their relationships? That’s more than 10 million men and women in a single year. Many victims are told its they’re fault, that they deserve it. People start to think this after a while. But no one deserves to be abused. I chose this topic to spread awareness. My art teacher, Mrs. Ruby, challenged us with the task of using symbolism to visually communicate our voice for social justice. For my piece, I drew a girl sitting in the corner, curled up, visibly upset. I am very passionate about this topic of domestic violence and abuse. As a woman, I wanted to choose a topic to spread awareness of something that women struggle with. Yes, a lot of women are victims of domestic abuse, but its not just women. Everyone can be a victim. As serious as this topic is, I chose it for good. No one deserves to be treated with disrespect. I want people to know their self-worth.”
ARTIST BIO: Ainsley Nasiatka is a grade 11 student at Butler Tech School of Art studying art under art teacher Mary Catherine Ruby.