Natalia Menshenina is a Ukrainian artist currently based in Dubai and Cyprus. A painter and artist who has been in private collections and exhibitions in Dubai as well as Fujairah, she uses colors and her observations of everyday to bring to life emotions and a unique perspective.
What defines your artistic identity?
Despite studying to be a diplomat, art has always been my passion. I moved to Dubai more than two decades ago after completing university and an art school in Ukraine. Having already exhibited my work back at home, I continued discovering my artistic “voice” in UAE since 2000. Despite still searching for a unique 'language' through which I can communicate my vision and how I see the world around me, it is more defined now than it was before. One painting is worth a thousand words, as the saying goes. My life is one of constant learning and discovery. While traveling and visiting museums, watching modern and contemporary displays, or simply talking to different artists and reading great artist's diaries, I have been obsessively observing and absorbing knowledge wherever I can. I am generally drawn to the works of Impressionists, as well as Orientalists.
I am inspired by a sense of aliveness and presence, and of course nature and the everyday moments that we are caught up in are the biggest inspirations. I am entranced by the colors, vibrations, and emotions, which make my heart race faster when I apply the brush to canvas. Brushworks can add elements of spontaneity that you would never create intentionally and this makes me ecstatic, similarly to the natural world - no two sunsets are the same. As I soak up those moments, I realize 'what it is all for'. This was the spark that ignited my passion for Plein Air painting and brought together my love of both art and travel.
I am also fascinated with the evolution of art into a digital format and the metamorphosis of AI interpretations. It is a groundbreaking development in the art world that AI can 'learn' to be creative. True emotional creativity, however, can only be achieved by humans, and nothing else can duplicate it. Artificial intelligence is 'artificial' and will always be cold and unemotional. As emotional beings, we are always affected by the mood in art - you must have noticed how some works get extreme attention when they are emotionally charged. Furthermore, art is for me a lifestyle, a therapy, and a way to express myself and find empowerment.
What mediums do you work in and why?
With its versatility, depth, expressive qualities, and forgiving nature, oil medium is really my favorite. In addition to oil paints, I also use soft pastels and oil pastels and other mediums to create my etudes and sketches. I do not always have the patience for a multi layered techniques, so I strive to 'a la prima’, however, it requires a lot of confidence, hence I never stop learning.
What are your favorite subjects to paint?
Plein Air painting has become a growing interest of mine in recent years. Being out in nature, seeing some of the most amazing moments that stay with you forever is pure bliss for me. Figurative art also appeals to me because I enjoy discovering one's emotions through their unique expressions.
How would you describe your journey as an artist? Has living in Dubai/the UAE affected this?
I am a true artist at heart who is always learning, reinventing myself and enhancing my skills. Dubai influenced my artistic progression in many ways. The opportunities to develop and showcase your art are much greater today than they were in early 2000. My horizon was certainly widened by meeting many fellow artists here. We traveled and painted together; this companionship resulted in series of art displays in Dubai (Boutique Art Display) & Fujairah (Eastern Coast Night Exhibition).
Any advice to beginner artists?
It is helpful to surround yourself with fellow artists and see how fascinating our worldviews differ and to share a passion for the same things. Now that I am living between two homes, here in Dubai and in Cyprus, I am pleased to be able to welcome artists to my art residence for new artistic discoveries. Trips to unique locations are very fulfilling and the sharing of knowledge is priceless. Skills are necessary and critical for an artist. However, if you set it as a goal, then you can very soon reach a dead end, having reached your maximum, or even lose your interest. Therefore, art isn't just about completing a pleasing picture - it is an experience.
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