Paintings and Portrait Studies
Color and light are key elements for evoking mood in my paintings, which predominantly depict interior spaces. Originally from the continental climate of Eastern Europe, I find immense inspiration in the vibrant hues of Southern California that can be seen in transparent purple and cerulean blue shadows. This rich palette of colors and imagery melds, giving rise to observational paintings and echo distinct luminosity of Southern California.
This initial phase of direct engagement with my subject matter lays the groundwork for a deeper exploration of space on canvas. As I progress, I venture into the realm of abstract patterns, weaving emotional depth and complexity into the fabric of my work. This process often leads to a transformational journey, where the final pieces diverge significantly from their origins, allowing me to convey emotional narratives.
Having lived in the United States for over two decades, I sometimes confront feelings of impostorship and a nuanced sense of detachment from American society. At times, I feel like a transient observer, an outsider peering into a celebration that isn't quite mine, caught in a liminal space between waking and dreaming of my homeland, Ukraine. Through my art, I aspire to build bridges between my heritage and my adopted home, inviting viewers into a shared emotional landscape that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, aiming to connect more deeply with a diverse audience.