Category: Artwork

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A Name That’s Transforming Watercolor: How Ekaterina Zaznova Is Setting New Standards in Global Art

1 year ago
Velicia Sunshine

In 2025, while browsing the catalog of the Affordable Art Fair in New York, I first came across the name Ekaterina Zaznova. I closed the catalog and thought: I need to know who she is. Now, several months later, I realize I had stumbled upon one of the most compelling examples of artistic leadership of our time.

The name Ekaterina Zaznova has already become synonymous with a creative shift in watercolor painting. Not a “new wave,” not a “rising star” — but a shift. A vector. A point of growth. She doesn’t follow tradition — she redefines it. And she does it with such precision that even the most orthodox critics agree: with her arrival, watercolor now stands on equal footing with oil, acrylic, and graphic mediums.

Method Against Inertia

What makes Zaznova unique? Above all — systematization in watercolor’s inherent chaos. The way she handles this complex medium — pigment, water, air, paper — resembles engineering. But instead of numbers, it’s about emotions.

Her groundbreaking method, “Watercolor and Alcohol”, sits on the edge of artistic and chemical experimentation. Zaznova introduced a new technique in which alcohol of different concentrations (30%, 50%, 99%) interacts with watercolor pigments to create unpredictable, profound, and entirely original visual effects.

“When I first saw how pigment breathed in the alcohol environment, I realized — this wasn’t just a trick. I had discovered a new language,” she says.

This language has already been embraced by the international art world: the method is copyrighted in the U.S. and is used on online learning platforms. Ekaterina’s course has laid the foundation for a new generation of watercolorists who are no longer afraid of the medium, but use it as a space for philosophy as well as form.

Leadership as Function, Not Title

There’s no need to argue with Zaznova — the numbers speak for her. Over 10,000 active participants in her global projects, 180,000+ monthly reach, partnerships with Fabriano, Winsor & Newton, Art Creation, publications in professional art magazines, and memberships in AWS, NWS, TWSA, and international juries.

But more importantly — she doesn’t shout, she builds.

Her initiatives, Pro Akvarel and About Watercolour, are not simply artist collectives. They are platforms for artistic development, with their own methodologies, curatorial modules, educational content, and global relevance.

As an art critic, I rarely encounter artists who not only manage their style, but their entire ecosystem. Ekaterina does exactly that. She creates and maintains a sustainable creative environment that thrives independently of trends, market pressure, or hype. That means — it’s alive.

Content Over Style: Intellectual Innovation

Make no mistake: Zaznova is not about shock value or avant-garde formalism. Her experiment is both intellectual and … Read more

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Roman Zao: A rare example of a tattoo artist with a research-based approach to the profession

1 year ago
Velicia Sunshine

In today’s tattoo industry, discussions increasingly revolve around professionalism, technical skill, and visual execution. Far less frequently, however, the profession itself becomes the subject of deeper reflection — its cultural meaning, historical transformation, and role within contemporary society. It is precisely at this level that figures emerge who move beyond conventional professional definitions. Roman Zao is one of the few tattoo artists for whom practice and research coexist within a single intellectual framework.

His professional trajectory has been shaped not only by artistic achievements, international recognition, and participation in major tattoo conventions in the United States, but also by sustained reflection on what tattooing represents as an art form today. This approach remains uncommon in an industry where visual outcome has long taken precedence over analytical thinking.

“At a certain point, you realize that a profession stops developing if it isn’t examined,” Roman Zao explains. For him, research became a natural extension of practice rather than a detached academic pursuit. His scholarly publications focus on the evolution of tattooing and street art, tracing their path from marginal practices to recognized elements of contemporary visual culture.

This research-oriented perspective directly informs his artistic and expert work. When serving as a judge at international tattoo conventions, Roman Zao evaluates not only technique and visual impact, but also conceptual depth, cultural context, and the coherence of artistic decisions. “Technique is widely accessible today. Thinking is what still separates an artist from an executor,” he notes.

The integration of practice and theory allows him to view the industry beyond the boundaries of specific styles or trends. Roman Zao approaches tattooing as part of a broader visual ecosystem, one that exists in dialogue with contemporary art, architecture, urban space, and social processes. As a result, his professional language is understood not only within the tattoo community, but also within a wider cultural discourse.

Importantly, this research-driven approach does not distance him from active practice. On the contrary, years of hands-on experience, international festival recognition, work with healed tattoos, and participation in professional juries provide a solid empirical foundation for his research. “Without practice, theory becomes abstraction. Without theory, practice begins to repeat itself,” Roman Zao emphasizes.

His position reflects a deeper shift taking place within the tattoo industry. As tattooing is increasingly recognized as a form of contemporary art, the need for analytical language, critique, and interpretation becomes more pronounced. Artists capable of articulating these processes with clarity and professional insight emerge as key figures within a new cultural paradigm.

Roman Zao exemplifies how a tattoo artist can move beyond a purely practical role and become a researcher of the profession itself. His academic work, expert activity, and international recognition shape the image of a … Read more

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Art That Inspires: An Interview with Elena Stepkina

1 year ago
Velicia Sunshine

In a world where most artists focus on private commissions and modest sales, there are those who transcend these norms. Elena Stepkina is one of them. She not only creates vibrant paintings but also redefines the role of art in modern society, elevating it to a new level. In this interview, we spoke with Elena about her journey, achievements, and perspective on art.

interview

— Elena, can you tell us how you began your journey in art?

Art has always been a part of my life. Even as a child, I felt that I could express what words couldn’t through a brush. I received a higher education in fine arts, which gave me not only professionalism but also the ability to think far beyond conventional boundaries.

— Many artists remain within the realm of private creativity. Why was it important for you to participate in exhibitions and competitions?

Exhibitions and competitions are opportunities not only to make a name for yourself but also to prove your professionalism at the highest level. It’s recognition documented by professionals. Initially, it was all about overcoming “impostor syndrome.” I wanted to feel more confident as an artist and have official proof of my skills. It’s a challenging but fascinating path. After every exhibition or competition victory, I felt myself reaching new heights. I eventually achieved milestones like my solo exhibition at the Tretyakov Gallery, which significantly changed my standing in the art world.

— What’s the secret to success in such projects?

First, it’s about hard work and constant development—taking one step at a time. Success doesn’t come from dreaming of “waking up famous” one day but from relentlessly working toward your goal every day. It’s not always smooth, but those who persevere ultimately succeed. Second, consistency and planning are essential. I didn’t make chaotic moves; I always had a plan—and a backup plan. I set a final goal, broke it down into small, manageable steps, and executed them daily. That’s my secret to success. For example, to secure publications in over 80 countries, I sent more than 300 emails. Initially, nothing worked, but after revising my text a few times, I began receiving invitations from publishers. Presentation matters greatly.

— You mentioned belonging to top-tier art unions. How difficult is it to join such organizations?

It’s extremely difficult. It requires serious achievements and international recognition. For instance, joining the Eurasian Art Union or the International Union of Teacher-Artists isn’t possible simply by paying a fee. It’s the result of years of hard work and numerous victories in prestigious competitions.

— You’re also actively involved with the media. How does this help your career?

Media play a crucial role in promoting an artist. For example, … Read more

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How to Improve Your Artistic Skills

2 years ago
Velicia Sunshine

Artistic expression is a fundamental aspect of human culture and personal identity. Whether you’re a child exploring the world through colors and shapes or an adult looking to refine your technique, there are numerous ways to enhance your artistic skills. This article will explore practical strategies to help you become a better artist, including the importance of participating in art contests, a practice beneficial for individuals of all ages.

Practice Regularly

The old adage “practice makes perfect” holds particularly true for art. Regular practice helps in honing your skills, understanding your medium, and developing your unique style. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to draw, paint, or sculpt. Consistency is key to making significant progress.

Sketch Daily

One effective way to practice is by keeping a sketchbook and drawing daily. Sketching allows you to experiment with different techniques, compositions, and subjects without the pressure of creating a finished piece. This daily habit helps build muscle memory and improves your ability to capture what you see quickly and accurately.

Experiment with Mediums

Don’t restrict yourself to just one medium. Experimenting with various materials like charcoal, watercolor, acrylics, or digital tools can provide new perspectives and skills. Each medium has its unique properties and challenges, broadening your artistic repertoire and enhancing your overall creativity.

Learn from Others

Learning from other artists can provide invaluable insights and inspiration. This can be achieved through various means:

Take Art Classes

Enrolling in art classes, whether in-person or online, can significantly improve your skills. These classes often provide structured lessons on techniques, art history, and critical analysis, which can deepen your understanding and appreciation of art.

Study Artworks

Spend time studying both classical and contemporary artworks. Analyze what makes them successful, focusing on aspects like composition, color, texture, and technique. Visiting galleries, museums, or browsing art books and online portfolios can be both educational and inspiring.

Seek Feedback

Constructive criticism is crucial for growth. Share your work with others and be open to feedback. Join art communities, either locally or online, where you can post your work and receive advice from more experienced artists. Learning to accept and use feedback effectively can help you identify areas for improvement.

Participate in Art Contests

One of the most effective ways to challenge yourself and improve your skills is by participating in art contests. These competitions are beneficial for both children and adults and offer several advantages:

Motivation and Focus

Art contests provide a clear goal and deadline, which can be highly motivating. Working towards a specific objective helps you focus your efforts and push your boundaries. The excitement of competition can inspire you to try new techniques and improve your current skills.

Exposure and Recognition

… Read more
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Roman Zao: How professional authority is built within the tattoo community

2 years ago
Velicia Sunshine

Professional authority in the tattoo community is never instant. It cannot be purchased, accelerated, or manufactured through visibility alone. Unlike trend-driven creative industries, tattoo culture remains highly sensitive to authenticity, consistency, and responsibility. Figures who command lasting authority emerge slowly — through years of practice, peer recognition, and meaningful contribution to the profession.

Roman Zao (Roman Zakharchenko) is one of those artists whose authority did not grow around a loud name, but around professional decisions that, over time, became reference points for the industry itself.

Authority as a consequence of the path, not the goal

Within the tattoo community, authority is rarely declared openly. It reveals itself through actions: who is invited to judge, whose opinion is sought, and whose perspective is trusted when evaluating others’ work. Roman Zao’s trajectory — from practicing tattoo artist to judge at major international tattoo conventions in the United States, including Golden State Tattoo Expo, Boston Tattoo Convention, Chicago Rosemont Tattoo Arts Festival, and New York Empire State Tattoo Expo — reflects this process.

Such transitions are never accidental. In professional tattoo culture, judging is a form of collective recognition — a statement that the community trusts an artist’s visual judgment and ethical standards.

Practice proven by results

The foundation of Roman Zao’s professional authority lies in his own artistic practice. He is a multiple award recipient at international tattoo festivals, including first-place awards for healed color and black-and-grey tattoos, Best of Day: Black & Grey, and Best Painting at major industry events.

These recognitions are notable not for spectacle or trend alignment, but for compositional integrity, long-term quality, and structural clarity — criteria that the tattoo community associates with artistic maturity. In professional circles, healed work is often valued more highly than fresh tattoos, as it demonstrates consistency rather than momentary effect. Roman Zao’s awards in these categories marked some of the earliest confirmations of his professional weight.

From individual practice to expert position

Another key factor in the formation of Roman Zao’s authority is his consistent professional stance. He works exclusively with custom designs, approaching tattooing as a unique artistic object rather than a repeatable service.

Over time, this approach shaped his reputation as an artist for whom meaning, responsibility, and respect for the human body are central values. Gradually, these principles began to function not as personal preferences, but as informal standards recognized by the professional community.

Judging as responsibility

Judging at international tattoo conventions is not a privilege, but a responsibility. Judges do more than evaluate individual works — they influence which criteria the industry considers legitimate and meaningful.

As a judge, Roman Zao focuses not only on technique, but on artistic thinking, conceptual coherence, the relationship between form and … Read more