Today we’d like to introduce you to Olga Romanova.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Latvian USSR in 1988. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, my country gained freedom, and the Republic of Latvia was re-established. After gaining its independency, the country went through many difficult years with high rates of unemployment and extremely low salaries. Things got better in 2004 when Latvia joined the EU, but, unfortunately, the country’s economical situation was again worsened after the housing crisis in 2007. Around that time I decided to move out of the country and look for opportunities on the west. I came to Dallas, America in the summer of 2009. I was not fluent in English and, first thing after arriving, I enrolled in ESL classes. Then I started working in the customer service industry to improve my English skills. I enrolled in Collin County Community College and received my Associate degree in 2013. The same year I transferred to Southern Methodist University where I earned a BA in Creative Advertising and BFA in Studio Art in 2016. Since graduation, I have been working as a graphic designer and creative director for real estate agency in Dallas. Also, I am continuing to paint and exhibit my works annually in different shows around the Metroplex.
Please tell us about your art.
As a first-generation American and a Russian-speaking Latvian, cultural triality of my nature motivates me to discover unity through the practice of art. With my art, I am establishing my own language as I search for my identity. By implementing elements from my past, I am reinventing things that are familiar to me and establishing a connection between my past and present. I work in mixed media combining digital prints and collages with traditional oil, tempera, watercolor and ink paintings. I use thick distinct brushstrokes to increase the visibility of the painting surface, and vibrant and saturated colors to make the surface vibrate.
Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
Yes, the role of artists is changing every day. In the modern world artists are given more power to speak and express their voice through social media presence. I think it is very important to understand what kind of message to send. I believe that painting is not merely decorative craft. It has to carry an original image and message to inspire people to create a better world around them.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Website olgaromanova.net and IG @olgaxromanova. Also, I have an upcoming show as a RAW artist. People can support my art and buy tickets here: rawartists.org/olgaromanova.
Contact Info:
- Website: olgaromanova.net
- Phone: 2144257788
- Email: oromanova@smu.edu
- Instagram: olgaxromanova
- Facebook: facebook.com/artistromanova/
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