Acclaimed Malaysian visual artist Mohana Kumara Velu, popularly known as Mona KV, has once again earned international recognition, winning the Woman Art Award 2025 at the prestigious Women’s Essence Show held at London’s ST.ART Gallery from 8th May-10th May. This marked the second consecutive year Mona has received the accolade, having been similarly honored in Spain in 2024.
The Women’s Essence Show, an international exhibition spotlighting women artists from around the globe, is dedicated to breaking down gender barriers and promoting female representation in the contemporary art world. Mona’s award-winning work stood out for its powerful narrative, spiritual undertones, and deep cultural symbolism.
In a interview with FMT, Mona said
“It was such an honor, the experience was incredibly special and being surrounded by talented women artists from around the world was truly inspiring”.
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Mona’s journey into art world began at a very young age. She was three years old when, it was sparked by the encouragement of her late grandfather who first noticed her talent and fascination with watercolours. Childhood bus rides past murals on the walls of the old Pudu Prison and quiet afternoons at KL Central Market watching local artist, built early curiosity and passion for art.
She later brought her skills under the tutelage of Malaysian watercolourist Maamor Jantan, apprenticed for five years under Jeganathan Ramachandram, and graduated with distinction from the Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA) in 2010, majoring in Fine Art.
“My pieces are usually layered with symbolism and there’s always a story beneath the surface. Most times, I like to leave room for the viewer to find their own meaning within it”.
Celebrating Women, Culture, and the Unseen
Mona’s distinct style is widely recognised for its narrative-driven artwork, often centred around female figures with South Asian features, adorned with traditional elements like nose rings and bindi’s. Her works explore themes of identity, spirituality and nature, blending cultural elements with quiet reflection of everyday life.
“A Lot of my inspirations comes from conversations, everyday observations and the quiet moments in between. There’s so much beauty in what’s often overlooked”.
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Using primarily acrylics, Mona’s work invites emotional resonance. For her art is more than expression, its a form of therapy and connection.
“The most fulfilling part is when a piece resonates with someone on a deeper level, when they see a part of themselves in the work or feel something they cant quite put into words”
Advocating Through Art
Beyond her own success, Mona has actively used her platform to uplift others. In 2011, she launched ‘Soaring Colours’, a charity project showcasing the works of artists with autism and Down syndrome. The initiative was widely supported by the public, with proceeds going to the Kirtash Handicap Centre.
She has also represented Malaysia on several global stage including the 3rd ASEAN-India Artist Camp in Meghalaya, India. Her piece “Alchemy’ reinterpreted themes from the Ramayana through a feminine lens and receive praise for its creative depth.
Mona’s exhibitions span Malaysia, New Delhi, Nepal, Italy, the United States, and Bali, where she held her solo show ‘Within’. Currently in Venice, she dreams of one day showcasing her work in the city’s world-renowned art spaces.
“I hope to see Malaysia’s art scene continue to grow with more inclusive platform that support artists from diverse background”
Mona KV’s continued success not only celebrates her personal artistry but also marks an inspiring chapter for Malaysian visual art on the global stage, a testament to the power of storytelling, culture, and the quiet strength of women in the arts.
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