Painting, Drawing & Composition Lessons | Inspiring Guidance from Passionate and Supportive Mentor | 2-hour online sessions

Find out more about Anastasia

• When did you start practicing? How did this passion find you?

  I've been drawing since I was a child, and it has always been a source of joy and discovery for me. I remember spending hours lost in my creations, completely absorbed in the process. For a toddler who couldn't walk or talk yet, that time spent drawing felt like pure magic. While my early works weren't masterpieces, the joy I felt in expressing myself was undeniable.
  
  As I grew, my passion deepened. I would copy illustrations from my favorite children's books and pause cartoons to sketch memorable frames. I loved drawing from memory, capturing characters from puppet shows, and creating quick sketches to illustrate stories for my younger siblings. I vividly recall the thrill of making decorations and drawings for our family performances-those moments were not just about art; they were about connection, creativity, and fun!
  
  This love for drawing shaped who I am today, reminding me of the joy and excitement that creativity can bring. I believe that everyone can experience that same magic in their own artistic journey, no matter their background or skill level.

• Which artists or works affect you the most?

  I'm inspired by artists from various periods and styles. Michelangelo's dramatic volume and grandeur captivate me, while Botticelli's delicate beauty is enchanting. I admire Serov's modern portraits and the bold colors of the Fauves, as well as Vrubel's unique approach and the avant-garde work of Braque and Klee. Rembrandt's mastery and the intensity of Russian art, especially Viktor Popkov's somber style, also influence me. I'm fascinated by Ferdinand Holder's work, Andy Warhol's innovative approach, and Andrew Wyeth's evocative pieces. I also have a deep appreciation for sculpture, particularly the works of Ernst Unknown.

• What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this area?

  To succeed as an artist, several key qualities and skills are essential:
  
  
  Openness to Self-Expression: Embrace your unique voice and recognize your strengths. Your individuality is your greatest asset!
  
  
  
  Embracing Feedback: Approach self-criticism with a growth mindset. Constructive feedback is a valuable tool that helps you evolve and refine your work.
  
  
  
  Consistent Practice: Dedicate time to your craft regularly. Establishing a practice schedule ensures steady improvement and allows your creativity to flourish.
  
  
  
  Passion Over Perfection: You don't need a formal artistic background or advanced techniques to begin. What truly matters is your genuine love for drawing and your willingness to invest time and effort into your development.
  
  
  
  Enjoy the Process: Find joy in your artistic journey. Celebrate each small step and acknowledge your progress, no matter how minor it may seem.
  
  
  With clear goals, determination, and regular practice, you can develop your skills and achieve your artistic ambitions. Remember, professionalism is built through consistent effort, so let's find joy in the process and celebrate ourselves for every effort and little progress we make!

• What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  To stay focused on creative projects, my top advice is to shift your perspective on setbacks. Instead of fixating on flaws, focus on appreciating the progress you've made. Dwelling on mistakes can drain your enthusiasm and make the process less enjoyable.
  
  
  View mistakes as opportunities to grow. Embrace them, work on improving weaker areas, but also highlight your strengths. Don't get bogged down by what's not working; concentrate on what you excel at. Whether it's color, composition, or structure, playing to your strengths keeps you motivated and makes the creative journey more fulfilling. Celebrate and track your progress by keeping your last artworks; this will help you notice the incredible journey you've taken and the progress you've made.
  
  
  Most importantly, always love your work!

• How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  My passion and love for drawing bring immense joy to my life and also serve as a reflection of my feelings and thoughts. My emotions can be quite complex and conflicting. In trying to convey an emotion, I experience it more deeply; in trying to capture the beauty I find appealing, I feel as though I'm touching its essence.
  
  
  Drawing allows me to deeply experience and understand my life. When I see that my work conveys even a part of what I intended, I feel a sense of satisfaction and childlike joy. Sometimes, I manage to express something greater than what initially inspired me, giving the work multiple layers of meaning. This really fills me up.

• What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  I'm particularly proud of my acceptance into and studies at one of the world's top academies, the Imperial Academy of Arts in St' Petersburg. This opportunity allowed me to gain deep knowledge rooted in realism and observational skills, which are fundamental to my artistic practice. My traditional training in drawing, painting, and composition provides me with a unique perspective on contemporary art. It empowers me to explore new trends and styles while drawing on a broad range of skills and knowledge. This achievement not only shaped my artistic foundation but also inspires me to continually push the boundaries of my creativity.

• Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  Yes, absolutely! I've often been surprised by how quickly students of all ages and backgrounds can progress, even those who start with no prior knowledge. Thankfully, many come without preconceived notions about what they 'should' or 'can' draw. This freedom allows them to approach their art with a fresh perspective, leading to remarkable strides in their development.
  
  
  It's always exciting to witness students achieving great things, regardless of their starting point. Their growth and success inspire me as a teacher and reaffirm my belief that every individual who steps into the studio possesses immense potential. It's about digging deep and showing that talent with confidence!

• Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  I believe the secret to my approach lies in balancing teaching with creating my own artworks, which helps me stay connected to the art world, experience the joy of creativity, and understand the feelings and struggles my students may face.
  
  
  Additionally, I find it essential to tailor my tutoring strategies to the individual needs of each student. This personalized approach fosters inspiration and encourages them to discover their unique voice in art and develop their style-whether they are just beginning their journey or aiming to explore new horizons. By keeping my student numbers limited, I can create a nurturing environment where they feel supported and valued.
  
  
  It also brings me real joy to witness my students' progress and personal growth. It's not solely about them achieving external milestones like selling their art or holding exhibitions; I find joy in guiding them to embrace their creativity, build their confidence, and appreciate their unique expression and the value of their own work. I take great pleasure in seeing them develop a deeper understanding of their artistic voice. Being part of this journey is incredibly fulfilling, especially because I, too, once sought support and encouragement from a great teacher who helped me find my path. That experience inspires me to be the mentor I wish I had, fostering a space for my students to flourish.