I was born a girl

The Right to Gender Equality in Sports – Alcinda Panguana & Rady Gramane

Artist: Minna Pietarinen
Year: 2024
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 100 × 150 cm (including frame)

The Right to Gender Equality in Sports – Alcinda Panguana & Rady Gramane is an energising and empowering original acrylic painting by Finnish artist Minna Pietarinen, created in 2023 for the globally touring I Was Born a Girl exhibition. This artwork celebrates two of Mozambique’s most influential athletes — Alcinda Panguana and Rady Gramane — whose achievements in boxing have challenged gender stereotypes and paved the way for greater equality in sports across Africa and beyond.

Through bold colours and dynamic textures, the painting captures the determination, discipline, and quiet strength that define their athletic journeys. It embodies the right of every girl and woman to pursue sport at the highest level, to be supported rather than discouraged, and to claim space within arenas long dominated by men.

Highlighted in several international exhibitions, this piece stands as a symbol of resilience and representation — reminding viewers that equality in sports is not only about opportunity, but also visibility, respect, and the power of role models.

Artwork details

Technique & Materials:
Hand-painted with professional artist-grade acrylics on premium cotton canvas.

Frame Type:
Mounted on a lightweight wooden stretcher frame; shipped rolled for safe and efficient international transport.

Inner Dimensions:
Image area approximately 100 × 150 cm; overall framed size corresponds accordingly.

Condition:
Good, with minor handling traces consistent with international exhibition circulation. No tears, cracks, restorations, or paint loss.

Provenance:
Direct from the artist; part of the I Was Born a Girl series created and produced in Finland for global touring exhibitions.

Publications:
Featured in I Was Born a Girl catalogues, press materials, and thematic presentations addressing gender equality, representation, and women’s access to sport.