Yulia Pustoshkina is a Russian-born Artist who currently lives in Australia and showcases her artwork internationally. In April 2017, she sold several pieces of work at New York’s ArtExpo, thus concreting her a place in the American art scene.
Yulia’s artwork is bright, colorful, whimsical, and detailed. A third-generation artist, she is heavily inspired by Russian folklore, fairy tales, and peaceful scenes from daily life and nature such as fishing and gardening. Each one of her paintings has a story behind it and many intricate details and hidden elements that make them interesting to look at.
Yulia recently graciously discussed her work in depth via an exclusive Interview.
Inspiration
Blasting News (BN): What inspired you to become an illustrator/artist and what influenced your lovely whimsical style?
Yulia Pustoshkina (YP): I grew up in the family of very creative people and learned different crafts from each one. My dad was my biggest inspiration as I took on painting since early childhood. He was also my art teacher at art school, and until present day we discuss and criticize each other’s works. My Russian heritage, traditions and painting techniques influence my style a lot, coupled with my own imagination.
BN: How many pieces have you created and how have you found opportunities to display your work?
YP: I believe I have created quite plenty of artworks. I am always on a lookout for something new, new opportunities. Especially having immigrated to Australia in 2001, a new field has opened to me. I am very thankful with the opportunities at present coming my way.
BN: Do you have any favorite pieces and what inspires their magical imagery?
YP: Each painting reveals a story, there is always something that’s going on. My favorites will always reflect my personal memory. One that stands out is called “Icy Feet.” It is dedicated to my mother and Russia and growing up as a child. My mother used to teach me ice skating. We would go late in the afternoon and I would enjoy gliding on the hard snow, just outside of our house, until I couldn’t feel my feet - that’s how cold it is in Russian winter!
Once back at home, I would rush into the bathtub and thaw my feet under the warm water. It’s painful but the pleasure of skating is much greater.
Artwork
BN: Your work is so joyous and colorful so have you ever considered illustrating children's books?
YP: I receive a lot of questions like that. But no, I am happy of what I am already doing and children’s books are not in the plans.
BN: What is the most rewarding thing about being an artist and what advice can you give to people who are trying to do the same?
YP: I love to listen to what the viewers experiencing while looking at my artworks. Their feelings, emotions, and the way they see the painting is always fascinating. It can be totally different to what I personally wanted to picture.
Many times, the viewers opened up a new way for me to view my own work, I find it amazing. Being an artist should only be happy and rewarding. Even if you are struggling with something you should take it as part of the process, that only means you are wanting to be better and because of that you will.
BN: What have been your biggest career highlights and what is coming up next for you?
YP: The last couple of years have been quite successful and very busy. I have been a part of many group artist exhibitions, had my first solo show at Bondi beach, Sydney. That was very rewarding, as well as some art awards at art competitions in Sydney 2017. Artexpo New York might be the highlight of this year with many future art connections made, good sales, new artists friendships made.
