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Art That Inspires: An Interview with Elena Stepkina

Posted: November 20, 2024 Under: ABOUT ARTS By Velicia Sunshine No Comments

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.

— 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

BE ART: A Gallery That Redefines the Art World in the Heart of Manhattan

Posted: August 06, 2024 Under: ARTWORK By Velicia Sunshine No Comments

New York is the center of the world, and Manhattan is its beating heart. It’s here that Elena Stepkina, a renowned artist and visionary, created a unique space where art becomes more accessible to everyone. BE ART Gallery is not just a gallery; it is the embodiment of a new philosophy for engaging with art.

How It All Began

The idea of opening a gallery came to Elena naturally. Having participated in numerous exhibitions worldwide, she deeply understood the challenges artists face. “I know this industry inside and out,” Elena explains. “I wanted to create a space with a fundamentally different approach, where artists feel valued, and visitors can connect with art without barriers.”

This ambition became the foundation of BE ART Gallery. One of its standout innovations is the inclusion of QR codes on artwork labels. By scanning them, visitors gain direct access to the artist’s profile, allowing them to view additional works, learn the artist’s story, and even contact them directly. “It’s a step into a new era where art and technology go hand in hand”, Elena says.

BE ART: Philosophy and Mission

The gallery’s name, BE ART, reflects Elena’s core belief: art is everywhere, and it exists within each of us if we only learn to see it. “This name has been with me for over 10 years,” she says. “My projects always help people discover the art within themselves and share it with the world.”

The gallery’s mission is to “Bring art closer to the people.” Here, art is presented not as something distant and inaccessible but as a language everyone can understand.

A Coveted Location

BE ART Gallery is located in the heart of Manhattan, on West 41st Street, just two minutes from Times Square. “We saw the space in late December and immediately knew it was the one,” Elena recalls. “We invested all our savings into this project, going all in because we believed that art deserved a place at the center of the world.”

Two months later, the gallery’s first exhibition was held. Since then, seven international exhibitions and two competitions have taken place in the space.

Innovations That Inspire

One of the gallery’s most ambitious projects is the publication of the book Be Art World, now available in 49 countries. It features nearly 200 artists selected by Elena and her team. “This book is about people. Art isn’t just something abstract in museums; it’s living stories, emotions, and inspiration. We wanted to convey that to the world,” she explains.

A Space for Every Form of Art

The gallery hosts exhibitions for painters, photographers, and digital artists. “We showcase everything that can be hung on a wall,” Elena says with a … Read more

Painter Charleston SC: Enhancing Your Home’s Beauty

Posted: February 26, 2024 Under: ABOUT ARTS By Velicia Sunshine No Comments

Charleston, South Carolina, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, is a city where artistry thrives. From historic landmarks to modern developments, the beauty of Charleston lies not only in its cobblestone streets and antebellum homes but also in the meticulous details of its paintwork. Whether you’re renovating a historic property or refreshing your modern abode, finding the right painter in Charleston, SC, is essential to enhancing your home’s beauty.

What Makes a Great Painter?

A great painter possesses a unique blend of skill, creativity, and attention to detail. From mastering various painting techniques to understanding color theory, a professional painter must have the expertise to transform your vision into reality. Experience is another crucial aspect as it ensures that the painter can tackle any challenges that may arise during the project.

Importance of Hiring a Professional Painter

While DIY painting projects may seem appealing, hiring a professional painter offers numerous advantages. Not only does it guarantee a high-quality finish, but it also saves you valuable time and effort. Professional painters have the necessary tools, knowledge, and techniques to complete the job efficiently, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your home improvement project.

Finding the Right Painter in Charleston, SC

With a plethora of painting contractors in Charleston, finding the right one can seem daunting. However, thorough research and careful consideration can lead you to the perfect painter for your needs. Start by exploring local painters in your area and take the time to read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge their reputation and reliability.

Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Painter

Before hiring a painter, consider factors such as your budget, project timeline, and specific requirements. Communicate your expectations clearly and discuss any special considerations or preferences you may have. Additionally, inquire about the painter’s insurance coverage and licensing to ensure they meet industry standards.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Painter

Opting for a local painter offers several benefits beyond convenience. Local painters are familiar with the unique climate and architecture of Charleston, allowing them to recommend suitable paint types and application methods for optimal results. Furthermore, local painters are more accessible for follow-up services and maintenance, ensuring long-term satisfaction with your paint job.

Painter Charleston SC: Top Picks

In Charleston, SC, several painting companies stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship and customer service. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s interior or enhance its curb appeal, these top picks offer a range of services to meet your needs.

Client Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it! Hear what our satisfied customers have to say about their experience with Charleston painters:

“I was amazed by the professionalism and attention to detail … Read more

The Breath and Purity of Creation

Posted: December 10, 2022 Under: ABOUT ARTS By Velicia Sunshine No Comments

Last week in Dublin was pretty noisy, as there was Kristina Bagaeva’s exhibition. The exhibition, united by the theme of the interaction of nature and humans, is designed to show the influence of Homo sapiens on what we see now in the world and how we endlessly strive for progress while turning to nature and its greatness in moments of despair.

One of the artists whose works were presented at such an exhibition for the first time was Kristina Bagaeva. Her video art is primarily known for the way it balances on a fine line with performance: initially planned mise en scènes in Kristina’s creations begin to live their own lives over time.

A distinctive feature of the artist is the desire for balance and moderation. It is these qualities that she preaches in many of her video arts. Her works are deep and hypnotic. They make the viewer freeze in anticipation of a new discovery. A person seems to hold “on the edge” for a few seconds before comprehending something big and important, which, like a powerful tide, falls on him from all sides.

However, in her new works, the artist turned to the elements, which, according to her words, give her strength in the most difficult moments of life – the sea. The main object here are waves, and the subject of research is the person himself and his condition, because this video is not just work but also meditation. Kristina invites a person to plunge into the sea of his own thoughts, experiences, and feelings and let each incoming wave carry away his sadness.

The presented video project includes a whole list of interconnected stages through which the viewer must pass as a meditation project. For example, it all starts with a breathing meditation; viewers are invited to undergo a breathing meditation (procedure) under the video sequence of sea waves: the tide of the wave is inhaled, the ebb is exhaled. Breathing is aligned exactly with the sound and rhythm of the sea vibrations and as close as possible to the natural rhythms of nature. In the process, participants begin to feel that the movement of the waves is the breath of the sea, infinite in time and space, and that their own breathing and their lives are also continuous.

“In a world of endless speeds and stresses, a person should have the opportunity to escape from the struggle with obsessive reality and live without proving anything to anyone – there should be a place and time for love and creativity,” says Kristina. “And in order for creativity to be truthful and sincere, the world needs attunement. However, the world is big, and the person in it … Read more

Outsourcing Your Home and Family Event Cooking

Posted: August 10, 2022 Under: ABOUT ARTS By Velicia Sunshine No Comments

Cooking doesn’t seem that hard, at first. However, when you’re not cooking for eight or more people at a time and doing it on a regular basis, the challenge of a big event and related catering is going to be overwhelming, according to Danielle Riddle. She should know; she’s been handling big event catering and professional dinners for years now with her own operation. Don’t take it personally; there’s no reflection on your cooking skills for regular eating and even fun. However, taking on the task of an actual food event for a group, or even a big gathering, so going to be a production.

First off, there is all the planning involved in terms of equipment, food ingredients, production, and delivery. That alone can be a full-time job. Then there is the actual cooking itself. Next comes all the storage and containment to keep the food safe and at the right temperature until it’s time to actually serve. Finally, after the eating is done and over, Danielle Riddle notes, there is also all the cleanup and removal.

Second, most professional operations, like Danielle Riddle and her team, typically utilize a trained unit of anywhere from five to ten people to do all the above. Even for a small event, it can still require a handful of folks to pull off right. Most folks don’t have the above down to a system. Some are used to cooking for big families, which is close, but not quite the same thing.

With a professional cooking and dining event team, all of the details are taken care of. Instead of having to worry about food lists, the right ingredients, critical equipment missing, temperature issues, and serving times, you can instead sit back, enjoy your event and guests, and then really top off the whole experience with a great meal and after-serving dessert. Even better, you don’t have to worry about post-production either. There is a personal involvement when you prepare a big event for a group, but it’s not as romantic as it sounds when it becomes work that you’re not used to. Letting a professional like Danielle Riddle take over this part of the event can be one of the most practical, smart choices contributing to the success of your big event. Spend your time with your guests instead of in the kitchen; manage things smart.… Read more