Art entrepreneur and activist Maria Baibakova has teamed up with the UN to launch a new project in support of women around the world.
The Art of Empowerment works with female artists to created limited edition works raising money and awareness for the UN Women UK initiative.
The United Nations’ organisation exists to eradicate gender inequality, focusing on leadership, economic autonomy, freedom from violence and recovery from disaster and conflict.
“The need to bring women into political processes and empower their economic activities around the world is now as urgent as ever,” says Baibakova, founding chair of the project, “I am honoured to support the only organisation that is undertaking this on a global scale.”
The first work is Princess by New York artist Tschabalala Self, who is known for her depictions of the female body, which incorporates both her lived experience and cultural attitudes towards gender and race.
Princess, on sale for £1750, is made of quilted fabric, “a craft that unites women across cultures and ages,” she says, adding: “My goal is to support and empower women through my work and practice.”
Thirty limited edition, signed pieces and two artist proofs will be available to buy via online auction site Paddle8 (paddle8.com) from November 28.
