After a short presentation about her own art practice, artist Sukanya Mani will teach a free virtual workshop about the intricate paper cutting techniques she uses in her own work. Mani will demonstrate beginner-level skills and encourage participants to create artworks of their own. She will also illustrate the importance of light and shadow within the artwork.

Free with a RSVP. The recommended materials for the virtual workshop are listed below.

Please be advised that the artist talk will include stories of domestic and sexual violence. The workshop is recommended for adults and young artists over 16 years old.

About Sukanya Mani

Sukanya Mani is a St. Louis-based, Indian-born interdisciplinary artist whose work centers around the sobering reality that home—traditionally considered a sanctuary—can become a place of danger for individuals experiencing domestic violence. This issue is compounded in the cultural intersectionality of immigrant and refugee communities.

Her work is currently on display at Mid-America Arts Alliance, visible from the street in the Culture Lab, with viewing times also available by appointment through December 22. The works in this installation honor the voices and stories of domestic violence survivors whom the artist has worked closely with through workshops and interviews supported by advocacy organizations.

Mani is drawn to materials that allow her to explore the relevance of authority, culture, migration, and storytelling within a relationship. Her work often incorporates legal documents, informative pamphlets, and found objects. Mani shares that “transforming the violent act of cutting into an act of creation” is central to her artistic approach.

Recommended Supply List

X-Acto knife (one per participant)

Cutting mat (one per participant)

Different kind of papers: printer paper, watercolor paper, and Tyvek

Pencils, pens, erasers

Compass or circular objects in different sizes for tracing

Zoom link will be provided after the free RSVP registration.