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The Sinful Works of Aunia Kahn Art is defined as an expression or application of human skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. In short, art should move the soul, loosing ones self in its awe and power. Of course, that’s easier defined than achieved. But when it comes to the surreal imagination and sheer skill of Aunia Kahn, it might be time to redefine art altogether. Born and raised in Detroit, Aunia says she was a natural creator as a child, who nurtured her gift into adulthood to become an accomplished 21st Century artist. Accomplished she is. Aunia has been featured on FOX News in Springfield, MO. and Los Angeles, Ca., as well as a long list of printed publications in the US, Italy, Germany, UK, Spain and Norway. The root of her success is a deep one, layered beneath her obvious skill and imagination. Aunia says it’s her ability to capture her own “likeness in movie-like stills of elegant decadence, varied taboo and often controversial subject matter to challenge the viewer, their understanding and preconceived notions.” Yet, through this restricted form of art, she connects to the viewer through honesty and an array of emotions she believes present in today’s society. On her website Aunia describes her inspiration being derived from “pure emotion”, those which are often “powerful and personal, ranging from love, anger, betrayal and the scores in-between.” She also says that “honoring the human soul, spirit and determination wholeheartedly breathes life” into her creations. Although Aunia says she can’t “define” her spirituality, she explains it’s a private journey for each of us, one that should never be pushed upon others. Scrolling through the images on Aunia’s site it’s easy to get lost, in time and spirit. She admits the process is “quite intense” but says that she really doesn’t know the hours anymore, that some pieces only take days while others go on a bit longer. Of course, the reward of such taxing efforts not only yields financial fruit, but recognition, too. Speaking of such, Aunia admits she enjoys press coverage, and thinks that it’s a great “boost” to an artist, but says there are less favorable sides to such success. She describes one as being the fatal attraction between fans and artist that blurs the lines of appreciation and success. She says it’s nice to be recognized, but “being humble and thankful is key.” If Aunia’s art were the only aspect of her divine nature it would be easy to end this piece here on a good note, but it’s not. Aunia is heavily involved with the mentally challenged and displaced animals. In her early 20s she experienced a very rough time, suffering through a period of anxiety, panic attacks, OCD and other drawbacks, coupled with a childhood of abuse. Her disorders soon become apparent, revealing the not-so-strong, unscathed person she attempted to portray. Somehow her art became a source of therapy for her, as did her preoccupation with learning about dysfunctions of the human brain. Through this learning experience, though, she began to understand her own “mental hang-ups” and created another world of “self-reflective art” where she didn’t feel so worthless. She had discovered a person within herself who wanted to give hope to those who also suffered from mental illness. Aunia’s experience of suffering was not only limited to herself, but her childhood pet, too. “I grew up watching my dog being treated in the same manner I was, I was always so sick inside about it.” The details need not be mentioned nor followed, as the pain is understood. It was these tough times that moved her, defining the crusader she is today. She says that watching her dog unconditionally love her and its abuser made her understand how ‘loving and forgiving” these creatures are. As a mother of six adopted animals, she felt limited on a personal level so she began to use her influence as an artist to help in other ways, such as donating art for displaced animals. After such a detailed dialogue with Aunia, I felt compelled to get involved. So I asked her what I could do to help place those unwillingly displaced? To start, she says learn how rescue works. Know that there’s much more to rescue work than making a financial contribution, although that, too, is a great place to begin. For instance, “transport” is a vial aspect of rescue work, helping an animal get from death row to a destination of safety – usually a 30 minute to two hour trip. She also says that networking is an “awesome tool”. Aunia has a separate MySpace page solely for animal rescue, myspace.com/Animals_Are_Sacred, where others can learn about animal rights, the adoption process and the newest “kill list” for shelters that euphanize. To end this piece, I asked Aunia if she had any last thoughts or thanks, she certainly did. “I want to thank everyone who has stuck with me, and supported me. I can’t thank you all enough for helping a dream of mine, which was originally unrealized, but now coming true.” And this is one dream that has certainly come true. To find more of Aunia’s works and projects please check out her website at www.auniakahn.com. |
