Vana 

Sofia Bonati's illustration ‘Vana’ presents a character study that invites contemplation on themes of power and vulnerability. The woman in the artwork appears as an enigmatic figure who defies traditional gender roles. Her androgynous features and plain attire challenge conventional representations of femininity, whilst the blush on her cheeks offers a contrast. She delicately dangles a dead mouse, a symbol often associated with pestilence. She holds the power of life and death. Bonati's precise and detailed drawing technique further enhances the work's emotional impact, highlighting the contrast between the woman's calm demeanor and the gravity of her actions. The use of muted tones adds to the work’s introspective mood, evoking a sense of quiet reflection. ‘Vana’ encourages us to consider our own relationship with power and the natural world. The artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the complex and often contradictory forces that shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.