How I Selected which Israeli Heroine to Illustrate
- marina manukian
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
What made me choose to paint these specific women? How did I even know where to look for them? What is the significance of these paintings in Israeli history?
The Diary of an Artist - blog 0016 by Marina Manukian - Israeli Heroine
In the Beginning
There's nothing that fills me with deeper pride than diving into the world of Israeli War Heroines - my series of illustrated portraits. Each woman in this series is a universe unto herself, a story of strength, resilience and determination. I see myself as a conduit, someone who passes these stories on, with brush and color.
The Diary of an Artist - Marina Manukian's blog 0016 - Israeli Heroine
More Than Painting
Before I even pick up a brush, I embark on a journey of research. It's not just about collecting dry data, it's a deep dive into the soul of the woman. I watch every interview she's given, read every word written about her, and listen closely to the things she chooses to say. I'm searching for that connection, that inner spark of hers that resonates with my own values. When I find it, when I feel that vibration within me, that's when the magic begins.
What Drives Me
That feeling, when I'm filled with pride for her and also for myself, is indescribable. It's pride in her ability to achieve amazing things despite all of life's challenges, and it's undeniable proof to everyone that such women exist - women who can conquer any peak. From these women, I draw endless motivation, receive boundless inspiration, and fill myself with powerful strengths to continue my work.
And what is this work? It's simple, yet essential: to continue to convey the clear and powerful message that women, too, achieve great things. That they are not just background or supporting characters, but true heroines, writing history and driving change. Every portrait I create is another brick in this wall, another voice added to the chorus of powerful women.
Sometimes I look at the entire series, and I'm simply awestruck by its cumulative power. Each woman is a light unto herself and together they become a lighthouse illuminating the path for other women. This is my greatest privilege and it is my purpose - to give them faces, to give them a voice, and to remind us all: we are here, we are strong, and we achieve.
Do you have a heroine in mind you'd like me to portray?
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