How a Delhi woman turned cyber abuse trauma into award-winning artwork

At the age of sixteen, Anukriti S faced severe cyber harassment when a photo of hers was maliciously shared by a senior. The trauma left her withdrawn, isolated and reluctant to leave her home. Over a decade later, Anukriti's artwork “The Tree That Never Slept” has been recognized, winning an award in Being Online, a global digital art gallery created by Digital Transformations for Health Lab (DTH-Lab) and the Global Mental Health Action Network (GMHAN).

Launched on International Youth Day, the exhibition features 41 artworks by young people under 30 from 21 countries, highlighting their experiences in an increasingly digital world. Anukriti, who was systematically let down by institutions meant to protect her, turned to art to express her feelings. She shared her story through writing and art, often under an alias, which culminated in her winning the award.

The artwork symbolizes image-based abuse and technology-facilitated gendered violence through design. Anukriti is now advocating for stronger policies, support networks for survivors, and mental health toolkits, emphasizing the importance of listening to young people's experiences to create healthier and safer digital environments.