10 Questions with Viktoria Adkozalova

Viktoria Adkozalova, born in the picturesque town of Feodosia, Ukraine, on October 3, 1987, later adopted the surname Lubenets following her marriage. From the captivating landscapes to the vast expanses of her native Crimea, nature's embrace formed the canvas of her earliest memories. Viktoria's artistic inclinations were evident even as a child, sketching the world around her with a curiosity that belied her years.

In 2002, she graduated from the Aivazovsky Art School in Feodosia, a place that honed her skills and introduced her to classical techniques. Her thirst for knowledge led her to the Kherson National Technical University - Faculty Of Design, where she trained under the guidance of the celebrated Ukrainian artist, Galina Sorokhan. Throughout her academic journey, Viktoria participated in numerous art exhibitions, earning accolades and recognition from esteemed peers.

Post-graduation, she continued her studies at the Dragomanov National Pedagogical University. Over the years, her oeuvre evolved, encompassing genres from painting and graphics to VR art and installations. With a career spanning over two decades, Viktoria's works now reside in private collections worldwide, testifying to her profound influence on the contemporary art scene.

adkozalova.com | @viktoria_adkozalova

ARTIST STATEMENT

Viktoria Adkozalova's creations traverse the enigmatic realms of the Universe, capturing the essence of existence and the relentless march of time. Drawing parallels with the String Theory, her works postulate that the tiniest of particles – the strings resonate to sculpt our cosmos. Every brushstroke seeks to unravel a world of emotions, attempting to bridge the chasm between the artwork and the beholder's soul.

While oil paints remain her predominant medium, she occasionally intertwines gold foil and acrylics to craft a narrative. The grotesque, a tool in her artistic arsenal, molds the interconnections of life, be it human or animal.

Predominantly, the female form takes center stage in her works. To Viktoria, a woman epitomizes the Universe. Her myriad emotions, captured in fleeting moments, push Viktoria to transcend traditional imagery, focusing instead on the profound essence, beckoning viewers to delve deeper into the art.

INTERVIEW

First of all, can you tell us a little more about your background and how you began making art?

My passion for art was ignited in my early childhood, primarily driven by my love for drawing and the unwavering support of my mother. She had always dreamed of painting and ardently motivated me, steering me towards the path of art. Thanks to her, I attended art school, where together we tackled assignments. The initial years were challenging, but by the third year, under the mentorship of our new instructor, an adept painter, I deeply immersed myself in the world of painting. His skill and passion for art ignited a fire in me, leading me to my professional artist career.

Your career already spans two decades. What is your favorite memory as an artist so far?

One of my fondest memories dates back to an art school plein air session during my childhood. We painted a sunrise as the sun ascended over the sea. Sitting on rocks with our feet dipped into the water, that profound sense of unity with nature and the surge of inspiration will remain with me for a lifetime.

Is there a piece you consider a "breakthrough" in your career?

Indeed, several pieces have marked pivotal moments in my career. These artworks, crafted at distinct phases of my artistic journey, were met with critical acclaim and audience appreciation. They reside in renowned galleries, epitomizing my artistic evolution. Particularly notable are Good Morning (2020) and Blue Whale (2022).

Can you tell us about the process of creating your work? What aspect of your work do you pay particular attention to?

The process of crafting my artworks is intricate and layered. I initiate by laying the groundwork, predominantly focusing on backgrounds and prominent elements. It's pivotal for me to convey emotional depth through each brushstroke. Upon establishing the base, I zeroed in on details, introducing translucent layers and nuances. Every piece narrates a tale, articulated step by step, layer by layer.

In your paintings, you depict animals and human beings, oftentimes with abstract patterns and surreal elements. Where do you find inspiration for your work?

Inspiration stems from various avenues, ranging from nature to cinema. Predominantly, my mood and emotional state profoundly influence my artworks. I aspire for each piece to radiate warmth, harmony, and a sense of tranquility.

What about your colors? You seem to have recurring colors you particularly enjoy using. Do they have any specific meaning for you?

Colors play a pivotal role in my artwork. I often gravitate towards natural hues but occasionally introduce vivid accents to imbue depth and expressiveness. I'm particularly fond of warm shades juxtaposed with cooler ones, like the fusion of ochre and azure. These colors evoke memories of the sea and the nature of my childhood, creating a distinct ambiance on the canvas.

What do you think about the art community and market?

The art market today is saturated and diverse. Numerous talented artists showcase their masterpieces, which, in my perspective, is beneficial for the evolution of art. At the same time, the competition renders the market more dynamic. I perceive this as an opportunity for continual growth and the pursuit of my unique style.

There's a lot of painting work on the market these days; how do you differentiate yours from the rest? What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?

In the realm of art, every artist harbors a unique spark. In terms of my creations, I believe my distinct worldview and brushstroke technique render my pieces recognizable. I endeavor to convey my sensations, emotions, and perspective on life through each artwork. This sincerity and soulfulness, in my view, make my works genuinely distinctive.

What are you working on now, and what are your plans for the future? Is there anything exciting you can tell us about?

I'm currently navigating through significant life transitions, which I believe will reflect in my art. My future endeavors encompass projects related to ecology, interpersonal relationships, and profound emotions. I hope my forthcoming works will resonate with many.

As we are almost at the end of the year, what else do you wish to accomplish this year, both in terms of career goals and personal life?

At present, I don't have grand plans for the remaining months of the year. However, I'm already laying the groundwork for a new project I aim to undertake next year. I hope the forthcoming year brings forth new opportunities and milestones both in my career and personal life.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.