Interview
Anastasia Yanchuk
Born in Moscow, Russia on July 4, 1986, Anastasia Yanchuk (Nati) is an artist and activist. Art has always been her passion. During childhood and early adulthood, her interest in drawing and painting was developed and further expanded through two years of coursework at Russia's State University (RGGU). Later, Anastasia graduated in Interior Design and Architecture (2003-2009) from the International Academy of Business and Management in Moscow. She moved to Italy after completing her studies. She began a new chapter of her life with a new country, a new job, new people, as well as a 5-year break in her art career. Following this, Anastasia returned to her idea of becoming a painter. She chose the artist name Nati and resumed painting classes. Currently, Anastasia lives and works in Alba, Italy.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“Art has always been a passion of mine. In childhood and school, my interest in painting grew and it was further developed at the Russian State University (RGGU) during two-year courses in drawing and painting. I then graduated from the International Academy of Business and Management in Moscow with a degree in Interior Design and Architecture (2003-2009). During my numerous trips around the world, I gained more artistic technique experience. Among those techniques, I learned ceramic painting, watercolour, acrylic to mandala art, zentangle, and doodle art, through which the subject is the pivot for how the concept of beauty is conveyed in its essence and with multiple and original interpretations. I then decided to pursue a career in the arts starting in 2020.”
What would you say inspires you most?
“Among the many inspirations I find are travelling, nature (especially seascapes), learning about other people, cultures, and countries. I am also inspired by the women around me who are stylish, charismatic, and unique.”
By fluently combining the world of colours with their innate cosmopolitan qualities, Anastasia's own personal style has been taken to a higher level by her technical improvement, pursued under the mentorship of Italian painter Barbara Fantaguzzi.
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The dominant theme in my art is that of femininity, as depictions of women are wildly different in different societies and cultures. Additionally, it can also be regarded as a form of non-violent activism. A piece of art that invites you to admire the beauty of a woman is an example of this.”
What is your creative process like?
“What makes my work unique is the way it is created. It all begins with an idea. The next step is to start creating and realising the idea. Once the colours and materials have been selected, the idea starts to take shape. The process continues until I am completely satisfied with the outcome.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is best described as trying to find perfection and balance.”
“I am most influenced by Gustav Klimt, who decorated his work with gold leaf, Vincent van Gogh, and Ivan Aivazovsky's seascapes.”
In what way do you see an artist's role evolving in society?
“Each artist plays a unique role. For example, artists who are activists can raise awareness of social problems like domestic violence. The ultimate goal is to make people nostalgic, happy, relaxed, or calm. During the current pandemic, this can be best accomplished by invoking pleasant emotions, such as happiness, peace, and calmness. Simply looking at artwork can have therapeutic effects.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In addition to exhibitions in Italy, Monte Carlo, Dubai (UAE), and PassepARTout Unconventional Gallery in Milan (Italy), Nati is affiliated with a number of other art fairs and galleries worldwide. Furthermore, my artworks are represented by Tablinum Cultural Management in Bellagio, Italy.”
Instagram: @anastasia_nati
Other: Facebook
