Liza Zhdanova is a contemporary Ukrainian artist whose work blends poetry and visual storytelling, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience. Her art reflects her emotional state, memories, and philosophical reflections on life and death. With bold colors, simplified forms, and an intuitive approach to composition, Liza crafts paintings that evoke a sense of nostalgia, intimacy, and contemplation.
Early Life and Influences
Born in 1994 in Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine, Liza spent her early years in Zaporizhzhia. Coming from a family of doctors, she was not surrounded by artists but was fortunate to receive encouragement from her parents, who supported her creative inclinations. From an early age, Liza exhibited a fascination with drawing, recalling her first artistic memory from kindergarten, where she painted a blue rat surrounded by intricate details. This small yet significant moment planted the seed of what would become a lifelong passion.
Despite not having direct artistic influences in her family, she found inspiration in the world around her. Her curiosity led her to experiment with different forms of self-expression, and as she grew older, she became increasingly certain that art was her calling. The support of her family gave her the confidence to pursue formal education in the arts.
Liza was drawn to monumental painting, which she studied at the Lviv National Academy of Arts. Her time at the academy was both challenging and transformative. She resisted conforming to traditional academic expectations and instead sought to develop her unique artistic voice. This period of exploration and self-discovery helped shape her bold approach to painting, allowing her to refine her visual language and artistic philosophy.
Artistic Style and Themes
Liza Zhdanova’s work is characterized by large-scale canvases, vibrant color palettes, and simplified, abstracted forms. Her paintings capture the essence of fleeting moments, translating emotions into visual narratives that invite viewers to reflect on their own experiences. She often describes her art as deeply personal yet accessible, filled with layers of meaning that can be interpreted differently by each observer.
A recurring theme in her work is the interplay between life and death. While the subject of mortality may seem somber, Liza approaches it from a perspective of acceptance and transformation. She sees beauty in the cyclical nature of existence and uses her art to explore themes of memory, loss, and renewal. Her paintings often feature elements of ritual symbolism, reflecting her interest in cultural traditions and the ways in which people process grief and change.
Beyond these profound themes, Liza’s work is also infused with nostalgia. Her paintings frequently evoke a sense of longing for the past, capturing moments of solitude, reflection, and quiet emotion. She embraces imperfections, allowing spontaneity to guide her process. She believes that art should be honest and raw rather than overly polished or calculated.
The Creative Process
For Liza, painting is both an intuitive and disciplined practice. She primarily works with acrylics, valuing their versatility and fast-drying nature. Her technique involves layering colors and shapes, creating depth through contrasts of light and shadow. She describes her artistic approach as a balance between control and surrender—sometimes meticulously planning a piece, while at other times allowing the paint to guide her in unexpected directions.
Her inspiration comes from everyday life, personal experiences, and deep introspection. Rather than waiting for artistic inspiration to strike, Liza believes in actively engaging with her work, viewing creativity as a process that requires continuous exploration. She acknowledges that there are moments of doubt and frustration, but she has learned to embrace these as part of the artistic journey.
One of her most personal works remains a pink-hued painting of a kiss, which she considers a turning point in her career. Though simple in its composition, the piece holds deep emotional significance for her, symbolizing a pivotal moment in her artistic and personal life. She believes that every artist has works that mark key transitions, and this painting remains a visual reminder of her evolution.
Challenges and Reflections on the Art World
Liza is candid about the challenges of being an artist, particularly in Ukraine. She acknowledges the struggles of working in a field that lacks stable financial support and institutional backing. The Ukrainian contemporary art scene, while vibrant and full of talented creators, is still developing in terms of infrastructure and recognition. Many artists, including Liza, navigate the complexities of securing exhibition opportunities, gaining visibility, and sustaining their practice financially.
Social media has become an essential tool for artists, allowing them to connect with audiences beyond geographical limitations. However, Liza also recognizes the pressure that comes with online visibility. The expectation to constantly produce and share work can be overwhelming, and she believes that artists should find a balance between digital engagement and personal creative growth.
Despite these challenges, Liza remains committed to her craft. She believes that true artistic success is not measured by fame or financial gain but by the ability to stay authentic and continuously evolve. She values personal fulfillment over external validation and is determined to follow her artistic path regardless of obstacles.
Exhibitions and Recognition
Liza’s work has been exhibited in several galleries and art spaces, including the Kyiv City Gallery “Lavra,” where she participated in the group exhibition “Garden of Freedom.” Her paintings have resonated with collectors and art enthusiasts who appreciate her unique perspective and emotional depth.
While she does not create art for the sole purpose of commercial success, Liza understands the importance of building a sustainable career. She is gradually expanding her presence in the contemporary art market and is interested in exploring international opportunities. She dreams of having solo exhibitions in major art capitals and continuing to push the boundaries of her practice.
Personal Life and Aspirations
Beyond her career, Liza is a mother and a wife, and she acknowledges how these roles have influenced her perspective on art and life. The birth of her son brought new depth to her artistic journey, reshaping her priorities and sense of purpose. While motherhood presents new challenges in balancing creative work with personal responsibilities, it has also enriched her understanding of time, patience, and the impermanence of moments.
Liza is deeply introspective and values solitude, often finding inspiration in quiet moments of reflection. She enjoys capturing everyday scenes, sometimes through photography and videography, which she sees as complementary to her painting practice. If she were not an artist, she imagines she would have pursued a career in filmmaking, as she has always been drawn to the power of visual storytelling.
When asked about her biggest fears, she admits that with motherhood, her concerns have narrowed to the well-being of her child. This shift in perspective has made her more resilient, reminding her of the importance of focusing on what truly matters.
Looking ahead, Liza envisions a future where she continues to grow artistically, explore new techniques, and expand her reach. She dreams of a world where Ukrainian contemporary art is recognized on a global scale, and she hopes to contribute to this movement through her work. She remains optimistic, believing that perseverance, authenticity, and passion will guide her toward new opportunities.