Interview
Julia Dogan
The story of Julia Dogan’s artistic journey began in 2013, when she first tried her hand at sculpture. At that time, she never imagined that she could become a professional artist - art was a passion, but not yet a path. Growing up during Russia’s restructuring era, Julia longed to study at an art school, but survival took precedence over dreams. She now sees this as a gift - not having a formal art education freed her from rigid academic frameworks and allowed her to develop a truly unique artistic voice. As an adult, Julia pursued art through independent learning, enrolling in online courses in academic drawing, watercolor, oil painting, botanical illustration, fashion illustration, and human anatomy. Studying without a physical teacher suited her introverted nature and gave her the freedom to explore techniques at her own pace. At the same time, she became deeply engaged in botanical sculpture, crafting delicate flowers from polymer clay, an experience that refined my sense of form, texture, and detail.
The turning point came in 2018–2019, when she realized that she wanted to take her art to the next level - not just technically, but conceptually. Despite having skills, Julia had no clear understanding of the art world’s intricacies. She immersed herself in studying the art market, the psychology of art, and the mechanics of creative impact. This period of research and self-reflection shaped her approach as an artist - not just as a painter, but as a thinker and storyteller.
In the spring of 2019, Julia created her first significant works - paintings that merged various mediums: acrylics, epoxy resin, and hand-sculpted clay flowers. One of these sold immediately, marking a milestone in my artistic confidence. But life, as always, brought unexpected contrasts. That same year, she experienced a miscarriage, a moment of deep personal loss that profoundly shifted her perspective. Julia felt a calling - to create something greater, something with meaning, something that truly spoke to people’s emotions and thoughts.
In September 2019, she was invited to exhibit at the French Embassy in Washington, D.C., where she showcased her “French Collection,” a series of works adorned with Czech crystal stones and floral compositions. This exhibition marked her formal entry into the world of fine art, setting the stage for what would come next. Returning from Washington, Julia began work on her first major oil painting collection, "Stand For Your Rights," exploring the theme of inner struggles - the battles against limiting beliefs, self-doubt, and everything that holds us back from happiness. This series was deeply personal, reflecting her own process of breaking free from internal constraints.
One of Julia’s most symbolic projects during this time was a collection of 11 axes, each adorned with pearls and gemstones. To her, an axe is a tool of transformation - it can destroy or create, depending on how it is used. Julia’s philosophy has always been one of creation, and this collection represented the power of redefining oneself, breaking free from old limitations, and constructing a new identity. Today, her favorite axe - with a long red handle - stands in her studio beside her easel, a constant reminder of the strength in reinvention.
Breaking free from personal barriers marked the beginning of a transformative period in Julia’s work. She realized that art should function like a book - each piece should tell a clear, compelling story. It wasn’t enough to create something visually beautiful; she wanted to create paintings that make people think, reflect, and see the world differently. This belief led to the birth of Conceptual Pop Realism, a movement that blends recognizable imagery with deep philosophical meaning.
In her art, every object is more than what it appears to be. A simple egg, a glass of wine, a playing card - these are not just elements of composition; they are symbols, metaphors, questions posed to the viewer. Julia wants her paintings to be experienced, not just observed. Women are central to her work - not as an artistic trend, but because the female experience is deeply personal and intuitive to her. She explores themes of freedom, identity, and emotional depth.
Today, Julia’s work is exhibited internationally, including solo exhibitions at the Museum of Russian Art (MoRA) in New Jersey, as well as participation in Art Miami, West Palm Beach, and Art Basel Week. Beyond painting, she has dedicated herself to mentoring artists, helping them find their unique voice and develop meaningful, marketable art. Her book, "Conceptual Pop Realism," and her educational programs are designed to guide artists toward creating art with intention, depth, and impact. She doesn’t just create paintings - she creates experiences, conversations, and perspectives. Julia’s art is her voice, her philosophy, and her way of reshaping the way people see the world.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I am the founder of Conceptual Pop Realism, an art movement that blends deep philosophical ideas with visually striking realism and vibrant positivity. My journey into the art world was never just about mastering technique - it was about finding a voice, a way to translate thoughts, emotions, and ideas into something that resonates with people on a profound level. I grew up with an insatiable curiosity for the world around me, constantly observing, questioning, and seeking meaning in the everyday. Art became my language of expression, a way to capture not just what I saw, but what I felt and thought. Though I developed strong technical skills in painting, I always believed that a true artist is not just a craftsman but a thinker. My breakthrough came when I realized that traditional realism, as beautiful as it is, often lacks a conceptual core. I wanted my work to not just depict but provoke thought, not just exist but communicate. That’s how Conceptual Pop Realism was born - a style that takes recognizable imagery and infuses it with deeper meaning, transforming everyday objects into powerful symbols of human experience. Since then, my work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries, I’ve received numerous awards, and my paintings have become a bridge between intellectual exploration and visual delight. Today, alongside creating art, I mentor artists, helping them find their unique voice and purpose in their work. For me, art is more than an aesthetic pursuit; it is a philosophy, a way to challenge perspectives, inspire change, and ignite emotions.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“At its core, my work is about freedom - intellectual, emotional, and personal. I believe that true happiness comes from the ability to think independently, to feel deeply, and to live authentically. Every piece I create is an invitation for the viewer to reflect, to question, and to engage in an inner dialogue. As the founder of Conceptual Pop Realism, I use bold, vibrant colors and hyper-realistic imagery to draw the viewer in, but beneath the surface, there is always a deeper layer of meaning. I often take familiar objects - something as simple as an egg, a glass of wine, or a playing card - and turn them into symbols of larger, universal themes: choice, chance, resilience, power, or vulnerability. My paintings don’t dictate emotions; they provoke thought and personal interpretation. While my work is not explicitly political, it is inherently philosophical, often touching on timeless societal issues rather than fleeting political trends. I explore themes like: Individual vs. Society - the tension between self-expression and societal expectations. Perception vs. Reality - how our interpretations shape our world more than objective truth does. Emotional Liberation - breaking free from fear, doubt, and limitations. Rather than making direct statements about current events, I create metaphors that allow people to see their own stories in my work. In an era of polarization and instant judgment, I believe in the power of art to create spaces for reflection rather than division. I want my paintings to be a breath of fresh air - an escape from cynicism, a reminder that even in complexity, there is beauty, and even in struggle, there is hope. That’s why my art is not about telling people what to think; it’s about inspiring them to think for themselves.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“My process is a balance between precise conceptual planning and intuitive execution. Every painting begins with an idea—a thought, a feeling, or a question I want to explore. Since I work within Conceptual Pop Realism, my art is not just about aesthetics; it’s about meaning. I don’t approach the canvas aimlessly - I already know the deeper message I want to convey. The initial phase involves a lot of thinking, sketching, and refining the concept. I often start by visualizing the core metaphor: What object or composition will best communicate the idea? How can I layer meanings to make it more compelling? This part of my process is highly structured and intentional because I believe that great art starts with great thinking. However, when I begin painting, intuition takes over. I allow the artwork to breathe, to evolve. Colors, textures, and details sometimes shift as I work - I trust my instincts to refine the emotional tone of the piece. While the overall message stays intact, I let spontaneity bring life to the vision. So in short, I meticulously plan the ‘what’ and the ‘why,’ but I leave space for the painting to surprise me when I work on the ‘how.’ This balance between intellectual rigor and creative flow is what makes the process exciting and the final piece feel alive.”
“Freedom is my highest value in life, and it is this message that permeates my paintings - the freedom to be who you want, to choose your own path, to define your own happiness. I truly believe that freedom brings happiness, and through my art, I strive to inspire people to become freer and, ultimately, happier.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“I stay aware of trends in the art world, but I don’t let them dictate my creative direction. True artistic impact comes from leading, not following. However, I do observe how the landscape evolves, especially where it intersects with my own artistic philosophy. One of the key trends I engage with is the growing shift toward concept-driven art. More than ever, artists are exploring themes of identity, perception, and emotional depth - which aligns with my belief that art should provoke thought and inner reflection. While some contemporary art leans into abstraction or raw expression, my approach within Conceptual Pop Realism is to communicate profound ideas through recognizable imagery infused with deeper meaning. Another movement I find fascinating is the increased fusion of art and technology - from digital art to AI-generated works. While I remain deeply rooted in traditional oil painting, I appreciate how technology expands the possibilities for artistic storytelling. The challenge for contemporary artists is to harness innovation without losing authenticity and craftsmanship. I also watch how the art market is shifting - with more collectors gravitating toward unique, story-driven works rather than purely decorative pieces. This is encouraging because it reinforces what I’ve always believed: that art is more than an object; it’s an experience, a conversation, a reflection of the human condition. Ultimately, while I stay informed about trends, my focus remains on creating timeless work - paintings that speak to people on a personal and philosophical level, beyond the fluctuations of what’s ‘in vogue.’”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I work primarily with oil paint, as it allows me to achieve the depth, richness, and precision necessary to bring my ideas to life. Oil has a timeless quality, a luminosity that makes colors feel alive, which is essential for my work in Conceptual Pop Realism. My process begins long before I pick up a brush. Each painting starts with a concept - an idea that carries an emotional or philosophical message. I spend a significant amount of time developing the core symbolism, sketching compositions, and refining the visual storytelling. Once the concept is clear, I move to the canvas, using a layered painting technique. My approach blends the old masters’ methods of glazing and underpainting with a contemporary, vibrant color palette. I often build up multiple transparent layers, which allows for a luminous effect and a striking contrast between light and shadow. I also pay close attention to textures and details - every element in my work has purpose and precision. Brushwork varies depending on the piece: sometimes smooth and seamless for a hyper-realistic look, sometimes bold and expressive when I want to emphasize emotional intensity. Beyond technical execution, I see my process as a dialogue between control and spontaneity. While my compositions are carefully planned, the painting itself always has a moment where it takes on a life of its own. Colors shift, details emerge, and I allow the piece to guide me toward its final form. My goal is to create paintings that feel both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant - where the viewer can appreciate the technique, but more importantly, connect with the idea behind it.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is my voice, my philosophy, and my way of making sense of the world. It’s not just about creating beautiful images - it’s about communicating ideas, emotions, and perspectives that words alone cannot fully express. For me, painting is a form of freedom - not just in the physical act of creating but in the deeper sense of liberating thoughts, breaking boundaries, and offering new ways of seeing. My work within Conceptual Pop Realism is a constant exploration of meaning: how objects, symbols, and colors can be more than what they seem, how they can provoke thought and shift perception. Art is also my way of connecting with people. While each painting starts as a personal idea, it becomes a shared experience the moment someone else engages with it. I love that my work can evoke different emotions and interpretations depending on the viewer. That’s the magic of art - it’s not just a product; it’s an ongoing conversation. Most importantly, my art is a reflection of my belief in positivity and transformation. Even when I explore deep or complex themes, I always aim to lead the viewer toward a sense of clarity, empowerment, or even joy. In a world that often highlights darkness, I choose to focus on perspective, resilience, and light. At the end of the day, my art is more than just something I do - it’s who I am.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“I don’t have a favorite among my own paintings - each one is special to me because I pour my thoughts, emotions, and soul into every piece. They are all different reflections of my ideas at a particular moment, like pages of an evolving story. However, if I were to name a painting by another artist that resonates deeply with me, it would be ‘The Son of Man’ by René Magritte. I love this piece because it invites endless interpretations - there is no single meaning, no rigid explanation. It challenges perception, making the viewer question what is seen and what is hidden, what is known and what remains a mystery. This idea - of layered meaning, of inviting the viewer into their own personal dialogue with the artwork - is something I deeply connect with. Like Magritte’s work, my own paintings aim to provoke thought, spark curiosity, and allow for multiple perspectives. The best art is the kind that makes you feel something beyond the surface, and ‘The Son of Man’ does exactly that.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I’ve had the privilege of exhibiting my work in numerous prestigious venues, each contributing to my journey as an artist and deepening my connection with the audience. Among them, several stand out as defining moments. One of the most significant was my recent solo exhibition at the Museum of Russian Art (MoRA) in New Jersey, dedicated to my artistic movement, Conceptual Pop Realism. This exhibition was not just a display of paintings - it was a manifesto, a declaration of the philosophy that drives my work. Through vivid colors, symbolic imagery, and layered meanings, I invited viewers into a world where everyday objects transcend their function, becoming reflections of deeper truths. Seeing people engage with my art, decoding its multiple layers, and sharing their own interpretations reaffirmed my belief in art as a form of intellectual and emotional dialogue. I have also exhibited at Art Miami and West Palm Beach, as well as regularly during Art Basel Week, one of the most influential art events globally. These experiences have allowed me to place my work in conversation with the broader contemporary art scene, where conceptual depth and aesthetic impact go hand in hand. Beyond these highlights, my artistic journey has been shaped by countless exhibitions, each offering new perspectives and opportunities to connect with collectors, curators, and art lovers. For me, exhibitions are not just about showing work - they are about creating experiences, provoking thought, and expanding the language of contemporary realism.”
Website: juliadogan.com
Instagram: @juliadogan_art
