Yana Slutskaya is an award-winning professional artist and contemporary still-life photographer based near Raleigh, North Carolina. She holds a BA degree in Fine Arts, majoring in Painting and Theatrical Design, from Moscow State Academic Art College.
Yana actively participates in various art shows and exhibitions which are a significant part of Yana’s artistic journey. She finds competitions and solo exhibitions incredibly rewarding, as they give her a chance to be part of the artistic community while also showing her works at galleries, museums, as well as to collectors and art enthusiasts nationally and worldwide.
Artist Statement
As a still-life photographer, I find immense joy and fulfillment in capturing the silent stories of inanimate objects.
The process feels akin to creating scenes on a theatrical stage, drawing from my background as a professional theatrical stage designer and decorator. I approach each composition by envisioning the objects as dynamic characters, each playing a role in a captivating narrative. Through the interplay of light, particularly natural light from windows, I strive to infuse my compositions with an inviting, dramatic and artistic ambiance.
My inspiration stems from the everyday elements that surround me, such as fruits and flowers from my garden, seashells, pottery, and unique vintage items discovered in various places. The beauty of nature and my passion for gardening continually fuel my creativity, offering a wellspring of ideas for my work.
Throughout history, artists have been captivated by the still life genre, each endeavoring to capture its essence through various stylistic approaches. Whether it’s the intricate realism of the Dutch and Baroque masters or the lively brushstrokes of Impressionism, the timeless appeal of still life continues to fascinate and inspire me.
In my works, I strive to weave together storytelling and visual delight while also imbuing them with hidden symbolism and philosophical depth. Classic still-life paintings are a wellspring of inspiration for me, as they reveal hidden messages and deeper meanings. Studying the early masterpieces of classic artists fuels my artistic influence. The symbolism in classic paintings serves as a poignant reminder of our mortality and the fleeting nature of existence, often referred to as “Memento Mori.”
About the Durham Art Guild
The Durham Art Guild is a nonprofit member-driven visual arts organization established in 1948. The Guild’s mission is to enrich and connect our communities by creating opportunities and providing leadership for current and future visual artists and art enthusiasts. The Guild programs over 40 exhibitions annually across multiple NC community partnership venues featuring over 400 regional artists. In addition to the Creative Mentorship Program and the Artist in Residence Program, the Guild also produces over 20 arts related events each year including receptions, lectures, community building events and professional development workshops. For more information about the Durham Art Guild please visit www.durhamartguild.org or follow us @durhamartguild
