Ventaglio by Evermondo: when beauty becomes change The charity project of Marina Pecherskaya with UNICEF
Ventaglio by Evermondo is the new artistic and philanthropic project conceived by curator and philanthropist Marina Pecherskaya, transforming beauty into a concrete force for social change. Through a charity auction and a series of limited-edition unique pieces, the project raises funds for the UNICEF Women-Led Innovation Challenge, an initiative that supports the empowerment of women and girls in Kenya.
Ventaglio by Evermondo: when beauty becomes change
At the heart of Ventaglio lies a simple yet powerful metaphor: just as wind is invisible, fleeting and yet unstoppable, capable of shaping landscapes and pushing journeys forward, the fan - once a symbol of elegance and hidden meanings - takes on a new nature. In this project it becomes wind in the hands, a gesture that carries beauty beyond aesthetics and turns it into a lever for change. For Ventaglio, internationally renowned contemporary women artists were invited to design unique handcrafted fans. Each artwork is created in two versions: one intended for auction during a charity gala in Milan and another reserved for collector’s editions. After the auction, these editions will be produced and distributed, expanding the reach of the project beyond the single event and allowing a wider audience to take part.
The charity gala in Milan
The charity gala and auction, which will take place in Milan on May 18, will bring to life a cultural and philanthropic gathering driven by a shared vision: that art and beauty can respond concretely to the humanitarian crises of our time. The funds raised will contribute to UNICEF programs in Kenya, promoting the empowerment of women and girls, strengthening family resilience and protecting children’s rights, with the goal of building a better future for the next generations. The program provides skills, access to resources and support networks to help the most vulnerable women start sustainable businesses, contributing to improved community wellbeing, greater gender equality and stronger child protection.
The artists involved in the Ventaglio project
Ventaglio begins with the contribution of artist Zora Mann, whose work and personal story resonate deeply with the project’s themes of identity, resilience and transformation. Her participation sets the tone for a collection shaped by equally distinctive voices. Among them is Benni Bosetto, an Italian artist working across drawing, sculpture and performance, creating intimate universes centered on identity and transformation; Stephanie Comilang, an artist and filmmaker whose “science-fiction documentary” approach explores migration, labor and belonging through collective storytelling; and Leda Catunda, a Brazilian artist renowned for her tactile “soft paintings,” where fabrics and color transform surfaces into emotion and memory.
A project that puts women at the center
Ventaglio places women at the center, not only as beneficiaries but as multipliers of change. Supporting women means investing in the wellbeing of children, families and future generations, creating an impact with lasting resonance that extends far beyond the initial gesture. Speaking about the project, Marina Pecherskaya states: "Ventaglio is about transforming beauty into energy. A simple object, a simple gesture, yet capable of bringing a wind of change for thousands of women and children." In a world often paralyzed by the scale of global crises, Ventaglio proposes a different perspective: true change can begin with something held in the palm of your hand. With Ventaglio, art becomes a wind of change, and everyone is invited to set it in motion and give it direction.
