MEET VELLY
VELLY is an artist and illustrator, with a degree in environment design and a background in art school and architecture studies. The main driving force behind VELLY's artistry has always been the passion to express and create.
In 2011, she began her journey as an artist, starting to paint and share her works on a blog. The talent did not go unnoticed, and in 2016, a significant opportunity presented itself when VELLY was invited to contribute as an artist to a prestigious Dior event in Moscow, marking a turning point in the artist's career.
In subsequent years, VELLY's artistry garnered attention from renowned brands such as Bulgari, Givenchy, Jo Malone London, Cartier, and many others, leading to collaborations as an illustrator. Beyond illustration, VELLY engaged in diverse projects and brand partnerships. The artist's dedication to sharing knowledge and inspiring others led to hosting workshops and delivering lectures, impacting aspiring artists in a meaningful way.
More recently, VELLY delved into the realm of mixed media art, embracing vibrant colors, textures, and innovative mediums. Her artistic process is a harmonious fusion of traditional and digital approaches. Artist combines colored pencils, watercolor and digital art programs, producing not one but two or three distinct versions of each piece.
At the core of VELLY's artistic exploration lies a fascination with human faces and bodies. Through art, the artist seeks to celebrate the beauty and individuality inherent in each portrayal, evoking awe and appreciation for the diverse complexity of humanity.
Can you tell us about your journey as an artist? How did it all begin?
My journey as an artist began at a very young age. I’ve always known that I wanted to be an artist. My family used to say, "She was born with a paintbrush in her hands," because I spent almost all my time drawing. While other kids were playing outside, I was in my room, immersed in my sketchbooks, constantly creating. My mother often joked that she couldn’t keep up with buying paper, as I would fill up every page quickly. As I grew older, my passion for art only deepened. I convinced my parents to enroll me in an art school, where I graduated with honors. I then pursued further studies in architectural school, gaining a better understanding of structure, composition, and perspective. This period was crucial in shaping my artistic vision. When it was time to choose a university, I was certain that I wanted to continue along this path. I was accepted into Kosygin University, where I studied Design. All these steps—childhood sketches, formal education—were part of my journey towards building a career as an artist. Looking back, I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. Art has always been a constant presence in my life, and it has shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally. My work as an artist has grown into a full-time career, with a diverse range of experiences, including working with luxury brands and exploring new creative mediums.
How do you balance technical skill and emotional expression in your art?
Balancing technical skill and emotional expression in my art is something I deeply value. For me, both aspects are inseparable, and I strive to create a harmonious blend of the two. On the one hand, technical skill provides the foundation. Years of study, learning different artistic techniques, and experimenting with various mediums have helped me refine my abilities. Whether I'm drawing traditional sketches, working with markers, or using digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Procreate, I ensure that my technical skills support the vision I want to bring to life. Mastering techniques like contrast, depth, and color allows me to capture details accurately, but more importantly, it gives me the flexibility to convey emotions through those details. On the other hand, emotional expression is at the heart of my work. I’ve always been fascinated by human emotions, how they’re reflected in faces and the stories they tell. The emotional aspect of my art comes from the way I interpret and translate those feelings onto the canvas or screen. For example, when I’m painting a portrait, I focus not only on getting the features correct but on expressing the subject’s mood, their personality, and the energy they emanate. The combination of technical precision and emotional depth is key to my process. The technical skill ensures that the emotions I want to express are grounded and clear, while my emotional connection to the subject adds authenticity and life to the work. I find that each piece I create reflects my own emotional journey at that moment, making the process deeply personal and meaningful.
Do you find inspiration in other disciplines,such as music,literature or film?
Yes, I do find inspiration in other disciplines, especially music. I have a condition called synesthesia, which means that I perceive sounds as colors. When I listen to music, I don’t just hear the notes and rhythms, but I actually "see" them as vivid colors, shapes, and textures. Each sound, whether it’s a melody, a beat, or a chord, has its own unique visual representation. For example, a soft, flowing melody might appear as gentle blues and greens, while a sharp, energetic rhythm might take the form of bold reds or yellows. This unique experience allows me to draw inspiration from music in a way that feels both visual and emotional. I often listen to certain pieces of music before I start working on a new painting, as the colors and textures I see help me translate those feelings and energies onto the canvas. It’s like a constant flow of inspiration that connects different senses and helps me create new worlds in my art. Music becomes a visual language that I can interpret and transform into my own artistic expression. Synesthesia is a fascinating experience that allows me to perceive the world in a much richer, multi-dimensional way, and I love how it influences my creative process. It adds a layer of depth to my work and constantly pushes me to explore new colors and forms that might not otherwise have occurred to me.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your artistic journey so far?
The most challenging aspect of my artistic journey has been a result of political circumstances in my country a few years ago. I was forced to start over from scratch, completely rethinking my future plans and career goals. It was definitely the most difficult moment in my artistic path. However, despite the challenges, I managed to push through, rebuild myself, and reshape my career. It was a transformative experience, and I’m proud of how I was able to adapt and grow during such a tough period. It taught me resilience and reinforced my determination to continue pursuing my art, no matter the obstacles.
What are your long-term goals as an artist?
My long-term goals as an artist are focused on growth, both personally and professionally. I want to continue expanding my artistic practice and deepen my exploration of different mediums and techniques. One of my goals is to have my own solo exhibition, where I can showcase a collection of works that represent my creative vision, and tell a story through my art. I want to create an immersive experience for my audience, sharing the emotions and ideas that fuel my creative process. Another goal is to continue building my community of artists and art enthusiasts. Through my blog and social media, I hope to inspire and engage others, fostering a space where creativity can thrive and artists can support one another. I also want to collaborate more with other creatives, whether it’s with brands, other artists, or in projects that challenge me to push my boundaries. Ultimately, I aim to keep evolving as an artist, refining my skills, exploring new forms of expression, and continually finding new ways to communicate my emotions through art. I want my work to not only be something I’m proud of but also to leave a lasting impact on the art world, connecting with people in a meaningful way.
How do you see the role of art in society today?
I believe art plays a crucial role in society today, more than ever. In a world filled with rapid change, uncertainty, and constant stimulation, art has the power to reflect, challenge, and shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us. It acts as a mirror to society, capturing emotions, struggles, and triumphs in ways words sometimes can't. Art also provides a space for individuals to express their personal experiences and share stories that might otherwise go unheard. It fosters connection, dialogue, and empathy among people from different walks of life. In a time when technology and social media often separate us, art has the ability to bring people together, spark conversations, and create shared experiences. Moreover, art has always been a tool for change. It has the potential to provoke thought, encourage action, and influence social and political movements. Whether it’s through visual art, music, literature, or performance, artists have the ability to inspire, educate, and motivate others to think critically about the world they live in. Overall, I see art as an essential part of the human experience that allows us to explore, understand, and navigate the complexities of society. It continues to evolve, and its role is only growing more significant in our ever-changing world.
What do you hope people feel or take away when they view your art?
When people view my art, I hope they feel a deep emotional connection—whether it's joy, nostalgia, wonder, or introspection. I want my work to spark something within them, to evoke a reaction that goes beyond just observing the surface. Art, for me, is a way of communicating emotions and experiences that words sometimes can't express. I hope that my art invites viewers into my world and allows them to see things from a different perspective, while also connecting with their own emotions and experiences. I also hope that my work encourages people to think, to reflect on the stories behind the images, and perhaps even to find new layers of meaning with each viewing. I’d love for my art to be a source of inspiration, whether it’s for someone to tap into their own creativity, to see beauty in unexpected places, or to simply appreciate the complexity and richness of life. Ultimately, I want people to feel something authentic, something that resonates with them long after they leave the artwork. If my art can leave an imprint on someone's heart or mind, then I know I’ve succeeded in creating a meaningful connection.
The Art of Resilience: VELLY’s Vision and Technique
In her artistic journey, VELLY delves into the intricate interplay of traditional and digital art forms, weaving a tapestry that reflects the complexities of the human experience, especially in times of conflict and societal upheaval. Her creative approach marries the tangible strokes of traditional art with the boundless possibilities of digital media, enabling her to explore themes that deeply resonate with the contemporary world. At the core of VELLY's artistic exploration lies a fascination with human faces and bodies.
Technique and Style:
Artist employs a mixed-media technique, blending traditional and digital artistry to craft vibrant and visually arresting compositions. Despite the seriousness and somberness of her chosen themes, she deliberately infuses her works with a riot of colors. These vivid hues serve as a deliberate contrast, inviting viewers with a visually stimulating entry point into the profound narratives she seeks to convey.
Artistic Vision:
Artist believes in the power of art to act as a catalyst for change, to awaken societal consciousness. By juxtaposing vibrant colors with weighty subject matter, she hopes to engage viewers emotionally and intellectually, encouraging them to confront uncomfortable truths and question established norms.
Through her art, VELLY invites to embark on a profound exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity. She aspires to spark conversations that challenge assumptions, broaden perspectives, and foster empathy. Ultimately, her art is not just a reflection of the world; it is an invitation to reimagine it, to envision a future where understanding and compassion triumph over discord and division.
