Witchcraft Against The Spiders

Launch of Valeriia Karaman’s new music video in exclusive premiere on Nasty Magazine

“Witchcraft Against the Spiders,” the latest creation by Ukrainian artist Valeriia Karaman, now based in London, reimagines the witch as one of the oldest archetypes for women who are different—those who can’t fit into societal norms and face misunderstanding or rejection. Through the haunting tale of an Elemental Witch betrayed by society and transformed into a force of vengeance, this story serves as a metaphor for resilience, regained power, and acceptance of her individuality. With its evocative visuals and compelling narrative, Witchcraft Against the Spiders channels the archetype of the witch as a symbol of misunderstood strength and unapologetic transformation. As an actress with a passion for horror films, Valeriia chose this genre for her personal artwork to explore the darker depths of human emotion, where fear and beauty collide to tell stories of empowerment and survival.

The music video unfolds the tale of a white witch who embodies purity and wisdom. She offers her gifts to the world, only to face betrayal and rejection. This act of human cruelty twists her spirit, transforming her into a vengeful dark witch-an unstoppable force born of pain and defiance. The narrative is a striking metaphor for societal alienation. It speaks to every woman, every misfit, every soul deemed “different,” who fights relentlessly against a world that misunderstands and betrays them.

“The narrative is a striking metaphor for societal alienation.”

“…a cinematic journey that feels both personal and universal”

The spiders symbolise fears, prejudices, and societal constraints, while the witch’s transformation reflects resilience and the reclaiming of power. Visually, the video juxtaposes the ethereal beauty of the white witch’s world with the haunting darkness of her fury. Each scene mirrors her emotional evolution, creating a cinematic journey that feels both personal and universal.

“..a testament to resilience and individuality-values I hold as a free person from a free country”

As a Ukrainian artist, I stand for freedom and authenticity in all forms. “Witchcraft Against the Spiders” was written in Russian before the war-a language I’ve used to express many of my songs and poems. This song is a product of collaboration, creativity, and deep emotion, and to not release it would disrespect the immense work and passion of those involved. Creativity knows no borders, and this music video is a testament to resilience and individuality-values I hold as a free person from a free country. It is not about the language, but about the story and the message of empowerment it conveys.

Witchcraft Against The Spiders / Valeriia Karaman

Credits:

Written & Performed by: Valeriia Karaman / @valeriiakaraman
Music Production: Ryacet / @ryacett
M&A and Hair: Janina Zais / @janina_zais
Styling: Joana Zibat / @joanazibat
DOP & Postproduction: Michael Kutscher 
Art Direction: Hana Gin / @hhanaginn_photo
Editor: Maria Abramenko  / @mariabramenko
Assistant: Annalisa Fabbrucci / @annalisa_fabbrucci

You may also like

Core

Fashion | Exclusive
Postcards from the Duomo in Milan, starring Sasha shot by Lexa Kim and styled by Freya with pieces by Vetements, Alexander Wang and Made in toyland.

Split

Fashion | Exclusive
In the speed of life his red eye overrules when mercy is being deprived and power blows out the burning flames. A fashion story from China, photographed by collective 27.

Redukt

Fashion | Exclusive
Life is the farce which everyone has to perform. Abstraction from the non-objective world with Yasmin, photographed by Marco Giuliano and styled by Anca Macavei, featuring garments by the avant-garde Antwerp-based brand Kié Einzelgänger.
Defying Boundaries / TENWIOn Inclusivity and the Future of Acid Techno / Diana May