Anya Kielar, Mademoiselle, 2021; Signed and Numbered Limited Edition Print

Anya Kielar's practice investigates the complexity of representing the female form, and the transformations that occur in an individual throughout life. Drawing from disparate sources and traditions—from the Art Deco movement to domestic folk craft—her work is produced via an immersive studio process that emphasizes the sensitivity and intimacy of handmade objects. Based in New York, Kielar has exhibited at venues such as New York’s Rachel Uffner Gallery, White Columns, and FLAG Art Foundation. Additionally, her work is in the Rubell Family Collection, Miami; the Dikeou Collection, Denver; and the Zabludowicz Collection, London; among others.  

Originally created in 2019 as part of the artist’s recent shadow box series, Mademoiselle features a partially abstracted female subject that takes shape through physical layers of paint, linen fabric, foam, aqua resin and wood. Kielar’s image captures a woman clutching her face in a seemingly pensive state, conveyed through an ambiguous gaze. Rendered in soft hues, the work incorporates hand-painted textiles and sculptural aspects, in a defiant embrace of techniques that have been traditionally coded as feminine.  

Kielar notes, "This charity is important because it allows me to give back through something I’m lucky to have, which is my art practice. I feel fortunate that I’ve been able to share my voice, through platforms like ART FOR CHANGE, and to feel that kind of support. It’s nice to reciprocate that support to others as well."

This limited edition is part of ART FOR CHANGE’s Spring 2021 virtual benefit exhibition, which supports artists and five New York City arts organizations––The Kitchen, Performance Space, Printed Matter, Abrons Art Center, and NADA’s new nonprofit. Of the total net proceeds of prints sold from this series, 50% will directly benefit the participating artists, and 20% will benefit the organizations.