A seamstress, artist, queer-feminist, and grassroot activist, Antonina Melnyk works with textiles and clothing and engages in theatrical activities and performance. Antonina’s practice is focused on non-alienated, fairly-priced labour; the alternative economy as a tool against exploitation of women; and investigation of discriminatory practices. She also works with the idea of re-thinking and re-appropriating cultural, historical, and social traditions.
Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, Antonina graduated from Kyiv National University of Technology and Design and studied contemporary art in Kyiv and St. Petersburg. In 2015, she co-founded the Shvemy sewing cooperative (Kyiv – St. Petersburg). In 2016, she joined the ReSew sewing cooperative in Kyiv. Antonina collaborates with her fellow artist Mariia Lukianova.
