Courses

Anastasia Ovchinnikova

BA [Hons] Photography

Anastasia Ovchinnikova is a Dublin-based photographer specialising in editorial photography. She also focuses primarily on portraiture, and at times landscape photography, covering the themes of femininity and colour. She has always been appreciated for her sensitive approach to her subject matter, she loves to bring out beauty in everything. Inspired by literature and her Ukrainian and Tajik heritage she creates mythical worlds in real-life settings. With knowledge of colour theory and psychology, she adds another layer of meaning to her images, holding also a natural, bold, and vibrant appearance to them.

Beyond the Veil

The project “Beyond the Veil” raises many, colourful voices of Muslim women here in Dublin. These women are fearless, imaginative, brave, varied, and vibrant. They are also powerful, free, fully conscious women who exercise their rights and speak their minds.

As a minority in Dublin, Muslim women are often subjected to perceptions that are built on a lack of cultural understanding.
In contemplating the outward expression of their faith, this work seeks to present the beauty and diversity in Dublin Muslim Women’s practices and beliefs. It is my aim that this work would honour Muslim women who are breaking stereotypes by sharing their inspiring thoughts.

Muslim women here are reclaiming their narrative and identity. Using the Quran as my main source of inspiration, women’s varied roles, responsibilities, identities, and situations are acknowledged and celebrated throughout the holy book.