Grrrls Just Wanna Have Fun

Inspired by J. Howard Miller’s 1943 American wartime propaganda posters, the latest mural from Theatre Lane’s artist in residence Irina Kuksova nonetheless has a strong local connection.

For the fiery red-haired harlot at the centre of the female empowerment mural is modeled largely on Emily Adams. Who just happens to work at Up To My Eyes. Straight across from this striking new mural.

“I was flattered, verging on dumbfounded, when Irina told me they were going to use me as the model,” smiles Emily. “The idea that I’ll see myself up on the wall every time I swing into work is slightly surreal. But, yeah, definitely flattered.”

To save Emily too many blushes, and to give the mural an Irish kick, the girl in the painting was given red hair, instead of Emily’s usual blonde.

“Her boyfriend has red hair,” offers artist Irina, “so, now they can tell what their first kid might look like…”

We caught up with Irina and Emily for a quick video chat. And, you know, just to be near Irina and Emily. For any reason.

You can catch some of the latenight kick-off for Irina’s latest mural right here.