Artist Kynthia Piakis was recognised at the LA Independent Women Film Awards for her animated short film ‘Collateral Damage’, which explores the devastating impacts of war on children.
The 26-year-old Melburnian received an honourable mention in the Best Animation category of the Awards for the project, which she admitted gave her a great sense of satisfaction.
“It was very rewarding and I am very glad the judges were able to appreciate the animation and feel its intention strongly,” Piakis told Neos Kosmos.
The artist said the project was influenced by the recent events in Gaza, and she wished to communicate the pain that is caused by that and all conflicts.
“I am happy the word gets to see this project and hope it goes further in inciting change,” she said.
“All proceeds raised from festivals, merch and social media all go to Save the Children, who have endorsed the project and want to share it. So, the more publicity on it, the more impact it has.”
Piakis explained the short film is deeply rooted in themes of loss, violence against women and the harsh realities of conflict.
“‘Collateral Damage’ began as a poem expressing my sorrow and evolved into a visually compelling piece that addresses the suffering inflicted upon children caught in the crossfire of war,” she said.
“With all proceeds from the project going to Save the Children, ‘Collateral Damage’ is not just a film—it is a call to action for the protection of future generations.”
The artist with roots from Crete and Thessaloniki stated the entire project (including the song she wrote that features in the short film) took around six months to create, with the help of producer Faith Teo and animator Ben Pergolizzi.
“Gaza inspired the project, which then expanded to every child worldwide experiencing war. Watching so many children die in such an inhumane way was truly devastating. It makes you question humanity and the depths of its capabilities,” she said.
The short film communicates many atrocities of war, such as the bloodshed of civilian and humanitarian aid, the rape of women, the degradation of men, and the bombing of safe zones.
“War has no limits. It has no mercy, not even for children,” the 26-year-old said.
“Killing children destroys hope for the future. It is very tactical. With children though, like the little girl, lies hope of change. Maybe she will grow to be that, now knowing the truth.”
The artist reaffirmed that the animation was not so much about raising awareness (with information on the topic being quite accessible) as it was about trying to feel the pain of war and ask questions about its sustainability.
“Like Banksy, it is an art that exhibits war from the innocence of a child.”
Piakis expressed her belief that there are no winners in war, which is what interested her about the subject matter, and that there seems to be an endless cycle of it over time regardless of the perception.
“We are all equally losers in war, and all equally capable of conducting it,” she said.
She lamented that many more famous artists have come before her expressing their own thoughts on the mess of war, which has not led to a grand change in attitude.
“I have no answer or closure for war. All I can do is feel its pain, and maybe together you and I can cry.”
Piakis, a first generation Australian, stressed that she feels very close to her Hellenic background which has partly inspired her perception of conflicts.
“Greeks know better than any nation what it means to fight for your land, your culture and your future,” she said.
“My name Kynthia, originates from Artemis the goddess of war. In a weird way, I feel as though I was almost born to fight for others and raise my voice to give others the freedom they deserve.”
