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Pussy Riot’s Nadya Tolokonnikova discusses art and activism

Tolokonnikova reflects on her prison experience and current challenges with Russian politics.

May 2, 2025 at 01:00 PM
blur ‘I was thrilled when they put me in solitary’: Pussy Riot’s Nadya on Putin, joining OnlyFans and turning her prison cell into art

Nadya Tolokonnikova channels her prison experience into new art while discussing challenges in Russia.

Pussy Riot’s Nadya reflects on Putin and art amidst personal struggles

Nadya Tolokonnikova, a founding member of Pussy Riot, has transformed her traumatic experiences in a Russian penal colony into an art exhibition in Berlin. Her show, Wanted, includes a replica of her prison cell, a performance piece, and her own religious icon paintings adorned with ski masks. Despite her fame as a symbol of resistance against Vladimir Putin, she expresses disillusionment and concerns over the state of Russian politics, particularly after the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Tolokonnikova also comments on her shift to platforms like OnlyFans for financial support, emphasizing that art remains a powerful tool for hope, despite her current bleak outlook.

Key Takeaways

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Nadya Tolokonnikova uses her art to comment on her imprisonment and the political climate in Russia.
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Her new exhibition in Berlin addresses trauma and disillusionment with a focus on hope through art.
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Tolokonnikova's move to platforms like OnlyFans highlights the need for financial sustainability amidst political activism.

"I don’t have any hatred of the Orthodox church. I don’t like the corrupt elements, but it is a part of the heritage our country can actually be proud of."

This reflects Tolokonnikova's complex relationship with Russian culture and politics.

"I still believe in the power of art. But these days, I feel like the musician from Titanic, who can’t stop the ship from sinking."

Tolokonnikova conveys her sense of hopelessness contrasted with her commitment to activism.

"Ever since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine started I feel … defeated. But I do still have hope."

Her struggle reveals the emotional toll of political conflict on activists.

"Political art is not a good business strategy. One needs to eat and pay the bills and pay for the kids’ education."

This statement shows her pragmatic approach to finances in the world of activism and art.

Tolokonnikova's artistic shift reflects a broader trend among activists adapting to political repression. Her exhibition not only highlights the trauma of imprisonment but also critiques the commodification of protest culture. As the situation in Russia worsens, her works serve as both a mourning of lost potential and a reminder of the resilience artists must cultivate. In sharing her struggles, Tolokonnikova navigates the delicate balance between activism and survival in an oppressive environment.

Highlights

  • Art is capable of giving hope and meaning to those who are desperate.
  • I was thrilled when they put me in that cell.
  • I wouldn’t want this article to be called, Nadya doesn’t have hope any more.
  • Political art is not a good business strategy.

Political sensitivity around activism and financial struggles

Tolokonnikova addresses sensitive topics like political repression and financial survival, which may provoke backlash.

Tolokonnikova's journey reveals the intricate relationship between art, politics, and personal resilience.

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