Artist Statement
Irina Yushmanova is a multidisciplinary artist who investigates the poetic tension between control and the freedom inherent in the art, usually in watercolor. She conceives watercolor as a rebellious force and, at the same time, tender and subtle, where water guides the movement of color and gives rise to moments of authentic magic. Her work focuses mainly on the urban landscape and human figure, exploring the dynamics of the city through bold angles, deep perspectives and an intense interaction with light. The luminous rays, the reflections and mirrors, movement and speed, expressive textures and controlled spots transform the architecture into an emotional life of the city. Inspired by impressionism and expressionism, Yushmanova does not seek a literal description, but to convey atmosphere, energy and sensation. In her creative process, time dissolves and watercolor becomes an act of wonder and enjoyment.
“…Rebellious and unruly, yet tender and subtle. This is all watercolor.
I love it for its soft and hard washes, for its mist and bold strokes, for its clear splashes with sharp edges, for its bright stars, its transparency and density. Watercolor surprises with its versatility.
You can’t control its movement 100%. Free, it moves toward the water. That’s its beauty. Watercolor delights!
When paint and water come together, the magic begins. Here the paint seems to float elegantly on the paper, here a clear line appears, and then with a few brushstrokes new elements are added.
When I start creating, I lose track of time; I’m so excited to see the result of watercolor’s magic…”
