The art of Muralism in Paraguay is steadily growing, quietly filling the streets and public spaces of Asunción with visual stories by emerging artists. Empty walls are quickly becoming a form of expression. Among the new generation of artists playing a role in this movement is Rhania Pankow, a rising talent.
Who is Rhania Pankow?
Rhania Pankow is a 21-year-old Paraguayan muralist who has always felt a necessity to express herself through art. From a young age, she explored different forms of creativity, including painting, drawing, and even theater. “I have loved art for as long as I can remember,” she explains to The Asunción Times. “I have always felt a connection to expressing myself.”
Her beginnings in the art world
Her journey into muralism began with curiosity and determination. Drawn to this art form, she took the initiative to reach out to different artists, offering her time as an assistant in order to learn from their processes. Through this hands-on experience, she developed her skills and gained confidence in her work. “I learned a lot, and once I felt more confident, I decided to go independent.”
Her first mural came from a personal opportunity. She painted it as a gift for her cousin’s hair salon. “I did not really know what I was doing, I just really wanted to start. I knew one thing: I wanted to keep painting.”
The creation of Rhania Art
As her work evolved, she created Rhania Art, a brand that represents her artistic identity. The project began during the isolation of the pandemic, initially as a way to process her emotions through painting and drawing.
“Little by little, it grew into something bigger. I always had this idea of painting murals, and eventually it became my profession.”
Turning her art into a brand has allowed her to expand her reach, while also presenting new challenges. “You have to balance the artistic with the commercial. But it is also an opportunity to grow and live from what you love.”
Art, identity, and social expression
Although her style is increasing, Rhania Pankow is increasingly drawn to socially driven art. While she has explored botanical themes, she now seeks to tell deeper stories through her work.
“I am interested in creating social art and being able to tell stories through images.” One of her most meaningful projects reflects this shift: a mural in Cateura that portrays the history of the San Blas community, shaped by flooding and waste.
Through her murals, she aims to go beyond aesthetics. “I want to leave something more than just an image, I want to create something that can make people reflect.”
The future of Muralism in Paraguay
Looking ahead, Rhania Pankow believes muralism in Paraguay has the potential to expand significantly. “Talent and a unique identity are forming,” she says, noting the strong connection between muralism and Paraguayan culture and daily life. Pankow hopes to see more local artists gaining international recognition, as well as more exhibitions and platforms for artistic expression. At the same time, she highlights the importance of building a stronger cultural audience.
“We need more people consuming art. When you support one form of art, you support all of them.”
What is next for Rhania Pankow
For Rhania Pankow, the future is rooted in growth, both personal and artistic. She continues to take on a variety of projects, balancing commissioned work with those that allow her full creative freedom. Painting in public spaces remains central to her purpose. “It brings me joy. It allows my art to reach people I never imagined.”
As she continues to evolve, her goal remains clear: to create art that goes beyond transforming spaces, sparking dialogue, and meaningful connections.
Learn more about her work by following Rhania Pankow on Instagram.
Also read: Meet Paraguayan Graffiti Artist Diestro: Making Walls Speak, And Dreams Live.
