Artist in conversation: Ekaterina Kozlova
“Engaging with a supportive community of fellow artists can be a great source of inspiration and motivation. ”
As a Russian Latvian artist hailing from the vibrant city of Riga, Ekaterina finds inspiration in the rich cultural heritage of both her Russian and Latvian roots. Drawing with ink in the Ancient Greek style allows her to bridge the gap between the past and the present, bringing to life the timeless beauty and elegance of classical art.
In her work, she seeks to pay homage to the artistic traditions of Ancient Greece, a civilization known for its mastery of form, line, and composition. By using ink as my medium, she is able to capture the essence of ancient statuary and pottery, infusing my drawings with a sense of timelessness and classical beauty. Drawing in the Ancient Greek style is a meditative process for her, allowing her to slow down and focus on the intricacies of line and form. Each stroke of the pen is deliberate and intentional, capturing the essence of the human form in its most pure and classical guise.
Through her art, Ekaterina aims to transport viewers to a world of myth and legend, where gods and goddesses roam freely and heroes embark on epic quests. Drawing in the Ancient Greek style is her way of paying homage to the artistic legacy of a civilization that continues to inspire and captivate us to this day. She invites you to join me on a journey through time and space, as we explore the beauty and wonder of Ancient Greece through the delicate strokes of her ink drawings.
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What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
My artistic journey is rooted in the passion to cinema and photography. As a 17 years old I moved to the UK to begin my studies with a potential to become a famous director or video editor someday. However I soon realised that to make a good film one requires a strong team of soulmates and professionals who will share one’s artistic views and values. It was indeed much easier at the university, right until the pandemic. My third year was right at the start of the strictest lockdowns in the country. However I still needed to submit a final work. It is when I discovered animation. And later began to draw with watercolours. I discovered a hidden talent and passion; drawing humans and landscapes made me feel less alone while stuck in my small studio. It way to escape the reality. I recently started experimenting with ink. In this series of artworks I seek to pay homage to the artistic traditions of Ancient Greece, a civilisation known for its mastery of form, line, and composition. By using ink as my medium, I am able to capture the essence of ancient statuary and pottery, infusing my drawings with a sense of timelessness and classical beauty. I combine photography and drawing in these artworks - they have classic features of sculptures transformed into 2D dimension on paper. Drawing in the Ancient Greek style is a meditative process for me, allowing me to slow down and focus on the intricacies of line and form. Each stroke of the brush is deliberate and intentional, capturing the essence of the human form in its most pure and classical guise. Through my art, I aim to transport viewers to a world of myth and legend, where gods and goddesses roam freely and heroes embark on epic quests. Drawing in the Ancient Greek style is my way of paying homage to the artistic legacy of a civilisation that continues to inspire and captivate us to this day.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I hold a first honour degree in art and politics and most of my artworks are inspired by political movements. They are fairly provocative, nudity, or equipped with some bright, straightforward statement. I find inspiration in HuskMitNavn, Keith Haring and Malcolm McLaren.
What specific elements of Ancient Greek art do you draw inspiration from in your drawings with ink?
In my drawings with ink, I draw inspiration from specific elements of Ancient Greek art such as:
1. Mythological Figures: I incorporate representations of Greek gods, goddesses, and other mythological figures into my artwork, drawing on the rich symbolism and narratives of Ancient Greek mythology.
2. Idealised Human Form: I don’t strive to capture the beauty and elegance of the idealised human form often seen in Ancient Greek sculptures and pottery. Conversely, my drawings are pretty abstract and more earthy. The lines are flawless, neither are the images or figures. What I always found inspiring about the Greek mythology is that Gods were never innocent and also made mistakes. In my drawings I try to represent their human side and the correlation between the unreachable and us by emphasising grace, balance, and proportion in my figures.
3. Black-figure and Red-figure Techniques: I experiment with the black-figure and red-figure techniques used in Ancient Greek pottery, to create depth and contrast in my ink drawings.
4. Geometric Patterns: I explore the use of geometric patterns and decorative motifs found in Ancient Greek art, incorporating intricate designs and repetitive shapes into my compositions to add visual interest and texture. By drawing on these elements of Ancient Greek art, I seek to create a dialogue between the past and the present, infusing my work with timeless themes and a sense of connection to the rich cultural heritage of Ancient Greece.
How do you hope your drawings contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding classical aesthetics and their relevance in today's world?
In my drawings, I aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding classical aesthetics and their relevance in today's world by:
1. Bridging Past and Present: By drawing on elements of Ancient Greek art and mythology, I seek to create a bridge between the classical world and contemporary society, highlighting the enduring relevance of ancient themes, symbols, and artistic techniques.
2. Engaging with Universal Themes: Through my artwork, I explore universal themes such as beauty, love, heroism, tragedy, and the human experience, drawing on the timeless narratives and symbols of Ancient Greek culture to spark conversations about the fundamental aspects of the human condition that transcend time and place.
3. Challenging Perceptions: I strive to challenge conventional perceptions of classical aesthetics as antiquated or obsolete, instead presenting them in a fresh and modern context that invites viewers to reconsider their preconceived notions and appreciate the enduring power and beauty of ancient art forms. The people in my drawings are not perfect. As mentioned previously, I conversely try to emphasise that Gods are within us and everyone is an angle as they are.
4. Inspiring Reflection and Dialogue: Through my drawings, I hope to inspire viewers to reflect on the connections between the past and the present, and to engage in meaningful discourse about the ways in which classical aesthetics continue to influence and inform contemporary art, culture, and society. Overall, I see my drawings as a means of breathing new life into classical aesthetics and sparking thought-provoking discussions about their relevance and significance in today's world, ultimately contributing to a richer and more nuanced understanding of the enduring legacy of Ancient Greek art and culture.
Can you share a specific piece or project that holds particular significance to you?
This series in particular is very significant to me. Firstly because those were my first ever experiments with ink. Secondly, they were vaguely inspired by my current partner who is Greek. He is introducing me in his culture and the idea came from drawing his portrait and later developed. However the most important work to me a gouache portrait of my ex. I captured him in a red Keith Richard’s baseball hat which he never received. He was a big fan of Rolling Stones, in fact he learnt to play guitar in the age of 5 under impression of their performance. And when I saw his hats on sale I thought it would be a great idea to gift how one. However, he perished in a car crash before it was delivered. At lest in my drawing he is having it on. I used the brightest colours to celebrate one’s life, one’s talent, one’s contribution to my life.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
Incorporating feedback from critics and audiences into my artistic practice is an important aspect of my creative process, as it helps me to continuously evolve and grow as an artist. Here's how I approach balancing this feedback with my own artistic intuition:
1. Openness to Feedback: I value feedback from critics and audiences as a valuable source of insight and constructive criticism. I actively seek out feedback from a diverse range of perspectives, including fellow artists, art professionals, and general viewers, in order to gain a broader understanding of how my work is perceived and experienced.
2. Reflection and Consideration: When receiving feedback, I take the time to reflect on the comments and suggestions provided, considering them in relation to my own artistic goals and vision. I look for patterns or recurring themes in the feedback, paying attention to areas where I may need to improve or refine my work.
3. Integration and Experimentation: I approach feedback as an opportunity to experiment and push the boundaries of my artistic practice. I am open to trying new techniques, exploring different subject matter, or approaching familiar themes from a fresh perspective in response to feedback that encourages growth and exploration.
4. Trusting My Intuition: While feedback is valuable, I also place a high value on my own artistic intuition and vision. I believe that it's essential to trust my instincts and stay true to my unique artistic voice, even as I incorporate feedback and suggestions from others into my process.
5. Finding Balance: Ultimately, I strive to strike a balance between listening to feedback and staying true to my own artistic vision. I aim to use feedback as a tool for growth and development, while also maintaining a sense of authenticity and integrity in my creative practice.
By incorporating feedback from critics and audiences in a thoughtful and reflective manner, I am able to deepen my understanding of my own work, push myself to new artistic heights, and create art that resonates with a wider audience while staying true to my own creative instincts and vision.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
Staying motivated and inspired despite setbacks or creative blocks is a challenge that many artists face. Here are some strategies I use to stay motivated and overcome obstacles in my artistic practice:
1. Embracing Challenges: Instead of viewing setbacks or creative blocks as failures, I see them as opportunities for growth and learning. I embrace challenges as a natural part of the creative process and use them as motivation to push myself to new creative heights.
2. Seeking Inspiration: When experiencing a creative block, I actively seek out sources of inspiration to reignite my creativity. This may involve visiting art galleries, reading books, listening to music, or immersing myself in nature to refresh my mind and spark new ideas.
3. Setting Goals: I find that setting clear, achievable goals for my artistic practice helps me stay motivated and focused. By breaking down larger projects into smaller tasks and setting deadlines for myself, I create a sense of momentum and progress that keeps me motivated even during challenging times.
4. Practicing Self-Care: Taking care of my physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining motivation and creativity. I make time for self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones to recharge and replenish my creative energy.
5. Experimenting and Taking Risks: To overcome creative blocks, I actively experiment with new techniques, materials, and ideas. By stepping out of my comfort zone and taking risks in my artistic practice, I push myself to explore new possibilities and break through creative barriers.
6. Connecting with Other Artists: Engaging with a supportive community of fellow artists can be a great source of inspiration and motivation. I seek out opportunities to collaborate, share ideas, and receive feedback from other artists, as their perspectives and experiences can offer new insights and perspectives on my work. By implementing these strategies and staying resilient in the face of setbacks or creative blocks, I am able to maintain my motivation and inspiration as an artist, continuously evolving and growing in my artistic practice.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
Exhibiting artworks with The Holy Art Gallery is a great opportunity for artists to showcase their work to a wider audience and connect with art enthusiasts and collectors. The gallery offers a platform for artists to gain exposure, enhance their credibility, and potentially sell their artwork. It is a rewarding experience to have your work displayed in a respected gallery that values and promotes art internationally. Ultimately, exhibiting with The Holy Art Gallery provides valuable opportunities for artists to share their creativity and connect with the art community.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
M long-term goals and aspirations revolve around continuous growth and innovation in my artistic practice. Some of my aspirations include:
1. Enhancing Creativity: I aim to continue exploring new techniques, styles, and mediums to expand my creative repertoire. By experimenting with different artistic approaches and pushing the boundaries of my creativity, I strive to evolve as an artist and produce compelling and impactful artworks.
2. Establishing a Unique Artistic Voice: I seek to develop a distinct artistic voice that reflects my identity and vision as an artist. By honing my style and expressing my ideas and emotions authentically through my artwork, I aim to create a meaningful and recognisable body of work that resonates with viewers.
3. Building a Strong Portfolio: I plan to build a diverse portfolio of artworks that showcases my artistic versatility and growth over time. By consistently producing high-quality pieces across different genres and themes, I aim to establish a robust body of work that demonstrates the depth and breadth of my artistic practice.
4. Exhibiting and Collaborating: I aspire to exhibit my artworks in galleries, museums, and online platforms to reach a broader audience and engage with the art community. Additionally, I aim to collaborate with other artists, curators, and organisations to create interdisciplinary projects and initiatives that promote creativity and innovation in the arts.
5. Contributing to Social Impact: I am committed to using art as a tool for social change and advocacy. Through my artwork, I seek to raise awareness about important social issues, promote diversity and inclusion, and inspire positive transformations in society.
To achieve these long-term goals and aspirations, I plan to dedicate myself to continuous learning, experimentation, and self-improvement in my artistic practice. I will seek opportunities for growth, feedback, and collaboration to expand my artistic horizons and make a meaningful impact through my art. By staying focused, resilient, and true to my artistic vision, I believe I can realise my aspirations and make a lasting contribution to the world of art.What role does emotion play in your creative process, and and how do you
What role does emotion play in your creative process, and and how do you aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from those who view your artworks?
As an autistic person, Ive been always struggling to process and to understand emotions of others. I never correlate colour lattes, composition, subject matter or texture with the emotions I am trying to provoke. In fact it must be the first time I am thinking about it. My main purpose in art is for it to satisfy the ideal picture I have in my mind. I never think of it having any other purpose.
