Interview
Olly Marchenko
Russian artist Olly Marchenko creates art from her studio in Saint-Petersburg. She completed her graduate studies at the National Institute of Design in Moscow, where she studied Graphic Design. Olly explores nuances and contrasts in her art, examining the values and identities of people through abstract forms and fluid techniques. She often draws inspiration from the environment in her work.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“While I was attending the National Institute of Design, I met a curator who invited me to join an art group. It was an amazing experience. We have been involved in graphics, performance, and art objects for several years. Afterwards, I decided I wanted to work with oil, then became immersed in illustration. Periodically, I switched between spheres of interest. For the last few years, I've been working with alcohol ink. It's now my favourite and most flexible method.”
“Through my latest series of works, I have explored the idea of "Nuances and Contrasts." The series depicts a personality going through changes and discovering more facets of itself as the process unfolds. In our nature, it is possible to be vulnerable and strong, as well as assertive and flexible. Furthermore, this softness and flexibility are accompanied by a significant amount of strength. It is within this power that a lot of beauty and admiration can exist. For me, this is an incredibly beautiful and fascinating process.”
What would you say inspires you most?
“The most important thing for me as an artist is to be open to the life around me and to have time to observe things and be inspired by them. My perceptions are always changing when I become aware of something new since I am inspired by people and am always learning. My greatest inspiration comes from the work itself; I immerse myself in it and develop ideas as I go along.”
Which artists influence your work most?
“I have been influenced most by artists from a variety of spheres. Along with Fabrizio Paterlini's music, I am also inspired by Jonny Niesche's contemporary works, Tony Cragg's sculptures, Gueorgui Pinkhassov's photographs, and the work of Batsheva Dance Company.”
What is your creative process like?
“The process always starts with a sketch. Even though I can move away from it during the course of my work, it is important that it be the starting point. I work on several artworks concurrently so that I can switch between them. In my technique, there are times when the desired effect is not easily achieved, and I have to wash off the ink or change the idea to accomplish what I want. Consequently, I work in layers and switch jobs when I reach a dead end. I quite easily deviate from a plan when new ideas come up during the work process.”
“My work explores the development of a person and our transformations. It is natural for us to change, discover things about ourselves, and learn about ourselves in ways that are not always pleasant. We are shaped by our culture and our environment in every way.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“As for tools, techniques are what I use to get the main effect. Typically, I use alcohol inks on synthetic paper. Since the vapours from alcohol require a respirator, the artist must periodically leave the studio to breathe in order to perform their work. The mobility of ink presents many advantages. There are, however, some disadvantages. In some cases, it's hard to achieve the intended shape. Using alcohol changes the saturation of the paint, and I use a hair dryer to direct the masses of paint and give the desired shapes. My process includes designing a large form first, then erasing parts and adding new shapes and details layer by layer.”
In what way do you see an artist's role evolving in society?
“Generally speaking, artists cover social topics, tell stories, convey tradition, turn us to our feelings, and provide aesthetic pleasure. Each artist is motivated by a different passion. Presently, I am focusing my work on a message that appeals to the subject personally and gives him a reminder of the things that are most important in life. I am also very concerned about the visual side of the issue, and I will not rest until it meets my aesthetic standards. Furthermore, I feel it is highly important to surround myself and others with beauty and enjoyment always.”
Website: www.ollymarchenko.com
Instagram: @_ollymarchenko
