Alika Zelenska is making her mark as an emerging artist in New Brunswick’s vibrant cultural scene. Her distinct style, which captures the essence of emotion and the surrounding environment on canvas, is starting to gain attention. Celebrated for its emotional depth and textured complexity, Alika’s burgeoning portfolio explores her deep connections with nature and personal experiences.
Canvas and Emotion
Beginning the Creative Journey
Let your creative journey be sincere and inspired.
Alika's artistry springs from an intuitive process, drawing primarily on the natural world and her reflective moments. "As I work on the canvas, I let my intuition guide me, adding layers and textures until I feel the piece is complete," she explains. This method allows her to transform initial sketches and colour explorations into expressive artworks, inviting viewers to engage with each piece personally.
Finding Inspiration in the Unlikely
Alika credits her travels and interactions as rich sources of inspiration, driving the evolution of her artistic expression. "Their stories, culture, and closeness to nature often spark new ideas that I bring to life on the canvas," she says. These encounters have encouraged her to move from straightforward imagery to more complex, symbolic compositions, using vibrant colours and symbolism to amplify the narratives within her art.
Overcoming Artistic Challenges
One of the significant challenges Alika faces is translating deep-seated emotions into visual form. She addresses this by digging into the fine details of her work, ensuring each element within her paintings cohesively contributes to the intended expression. Her most cherished project to date is a series that explores themes of freedom and resilience, inspired by the profound events in Ukraine. "They symbolize the pursuit of inner freedom, a theme that resonates deeply with me and my country," she says.
The Role of an Artist in Society
Alika believes that emerging artists like herself play a vital role in today's society by fostering reflection and emotional connections through their art. "An artist can touch the soul and create an emotional connection, encouraging viewers to think about their own values and desires," she says. Her involvement in the art community extends beyond her studio; Alika actively participates in local exhibitions, recently at Divine Studios in Saint John and cultural events to engage with other artists and draw new inspiration.
Embracing Technique and Looking Forward
Despite considering herself a novice in the field with much to learn, Alika's passion for painting is evident in her approach. "Sometimes, I make completely random brushstrokes and paint as my soul dictates—maybe that's my secret," she muses. She appreciates the quick-drying nature of acrylic paints, which allows her to experiment with texture and colour dynamically.
As she continues her artistic journey, Alika is enthusiastic about finding new platforms to share her work and further integrate herself into the artistic community. Her advice for other newcomers is encouraging: "Don't be afraid to experiment and find your style. Let your creative journey be sincere and inspired."
Alika Zelenska's emerging voice in New Brunswick’s art scene promises to enrich its cultural fabric, offering fresh perspectives through her paintings that capture the beauty and emotions of her surroundings.
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Alina is an amazing talent, we are lucky to have her in Saint John!!!