We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aly Modleski. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aly below.

Aly, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

As an artist, my journey began much like many others in the field of artistry – self-taught and driven by a deep-rooted passion for creation. From my earliest memories, I was always drawn to painting and crafting, exploring the endless possibilities that a blank canvas offered. Despite this natural inclination towards art, I initially pursued a more conventional career path, earning a degree in Banking & Finance. This decision was fueled by the common fear of becoming a “starving artist.” Nevertheless, art remained a constant in my life, a leisurely pursuit that provided a creative outlet amidst my formal education and career.

My formal education in art began later, with theoretical training at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, NY. This experience was supplemented by practical lessons from various Ukrainian and American artists. These experiences were invaluable, yet looking back, I realize that a key element in my artistic development was the courage to experiment and the pursuit of a personal style. Often, artists who undergo classical academic training find themselves confined within the rigid boundaries of academic canons, which can stifle the evolution of their unique artistic voice. I allowed myself the freedom to explore different art mediums and styles, constantly seeking what resonated with me personally.

In retrospect, the most essential skill in my journey as an artist has been the willingness to experiment and take risks. This approach not only helped me start developing my personal style (which is still a work in progress) but also allowed me to grow and evolve as an artist beyond the traditional confines of academic art. I would advise my younger self and other starting artists not to fear stepping out of conventional art boundaries and to embrace the unique journey that each stroke of the brush brings.

Can you share a couple of projects from your portfolio that hold the most personal significance and explain what criteria make them particularly meaningful to you?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever embarked on as an artist happened during a time of great turmoil and distress – the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Amidst this chaos, I was approached by organizers of a charitable auction event. Their goal was to raise funds for urgent humanitarian needs in Ukraine, and they asked if I would be willing to donate a couple of my paintings for the auction. The request struck a deep chord with me, as Ukraine is my home country, and the thought of contributing to its aid through my art was both humbling and empowering.

The process of creating these two paintings was unlike any other project I had undertaken. There was a profound sense of purpose and emotion that flowed into every brushstroke. I found myself reflecting on my roots, the resilience of the Ukrainian people, and the tumultuous situation back home. This project was more than just an artistic endeavor; it was a personal journey and a form of solidarity with those suffering in Ukraine. The anticipation of the auction was both exciting and nerve-wracking. As an artist, you always hope your work resonates with others, but in this case, there was an added layer of urgency and significance.

When I learned that the paintings had been successfully auctioned off and had raised a substantial amount of money for Ukraine, the feeling was indescribable. It was a moment of profound fulfillment and pride. Not only had my art found appreciation among the bidders, but it had also played a small part in providing much-needed assistance to my homeland. This project, more than any other, affirmed the power of art as a force for good and solidified my belief in the impact that art can have beyond the canvas. It’s a project that will forever hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the strength and resilience that art can embody.

When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

From a very young age, I’ve always harbored a deep-seated inclination towards art. I believe the seeds of my artistic journey were planted the very first time I held a paintbrush during my preschool years. Those early experiences with colors and shapes weren’t just playful activities; they were the first steps in a lifelong journey of creative exploration. However, the path to realizing art as a professional calling wasn’t straightforward for me.

It was during my corporate career in the financial industry that the realization truly dawned on me. Amidst the spreadsheets, presentations, and fiscal analyses, I found myself frequently drawn back to the world of art. It was a world that provided an escape, a sense of fulfillment, and, more importantly, a profound sense of identity. The corporate environment, while rewarding in its own right, illuminated the contrast between a job and a calling. The realization that I yearned for something more creatively fulfilling began to grow stronger.

The decisive moment came after I became a mother. Parenthood brings with it a myriad of lessons and realizations, one of the most significant being the importance of setting an example for your child. I wanted to show my daughter the importance of following your dreams and the value of pursuing your passions, regardless of the obstacles. This realization spurred me to take the leap into a full-time artistic career. It was about more than just fulfilling my own aspirations; it was about showing my daughter that with determination, courage, and hard work, you can achieve your goals, no matter the circumstances. My journey into art as a profession is not just a personal triumph but a legacy I hope to pass on to her – the belief that it’s never too late to pursue what truly makes you happy.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a contemporary fine artist based in Austin, Texas. I create unapologetically happy fine art paintings, that celebrate the beauty of nature and bring joy to those who encounter them. I paint mixed media floral and cacti fine artworks, capturing the beauty of nature with vibrant colors and textured layers.

As an artist, I firmly believe in the idea that “I create therefore I am.” This statement speaks to the core of my being and the importance of art in my life. My goal as a female Ukrainian artist is to create pieces that bring happiness to others. I believe that as we grow older, we tend to forget about the beauty and perfection that surrounds us. Art helps us to convey our emotions and feelings, which can be particularly challenging for women who are taught to suppress their feelings.

My art is my personal therapy, especially with the war that is currently going on in Ukraine. Through my paintings, I hope to uplift and remind people of the simple pleasures that are available and affordable to us all. My goal is to create pieces that bring joy and happiness, even during the hardest of times.

As a female artist, I believe that it is essential to use my art to empower other women. I hope to inspire other women to express themselves creatively and to use art as a means of therapy and self-expression. Ultimately, my goal as an artist is to create pieces that bring beauty and happiness into the lives of others, reminding them of the simple pleasures that make life worth living.

It brings me great pride to know that my art has found a place in private collections across Europe and the United States. Represented by various galleries in Texas, my paintings have found homes where they can be admired by art collectors and those who simply appreciate the beauty of art. Whether you’re starting your own art collection or seeking a unique piece to brighten your living space, my fine art paintings are investments that can be cherished and passed on to future generations.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist, for me, is the unique opportunity to work on commissions for my art collectors. There’s an inherent thrill and excitement in the process of discovering what a ‘dream painting’ means for each collector. It’s a journey that goes beyond just creating art because it involves understanding the space the art piece is intended for, be it a cozy corner in a home or an elegant office setting. This process of collaboration allows me to tailor the artwork not just in terms of the visual appeal but also in size and ambiance, ensuring it fits perfectly in the intended environment.

What truly captivates me each time is witnessing the final reaction to the completed piece. There’s a moment of magic when the artwork is revealed, and the joy and satisfaction it brings to the collector are immeasurable. This emotional connection, this shared moment between the art, myself, and the collector, is profoundly fulfilling.

Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of each commissioned project is seeing my painting in its ‘forever home.’ It’s a gratifying conclusion to the project. I am incredibly grateful whenever my collectors share photos of my artworks in their spaces. These images are not just pictures; they are stories of how art can transform a space and become an integral part of someone’s life. Each photo is a testament to the connection and impact art can have, making the entire process immensely rewarding for me as an artist.

Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

The world of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) is an intriguing and rapidly evolving sector in the art market. What we’re witnessing is a consistent growth and expansion in the NFT space, attracting a diverse range of investors. It’s fascinating to see how even the most traditional art collectors and investors, who once might have been skeptical, are now exploring the potential of NFTs. However, it’s important to note that the driving force behind this interest often leans more towards the financial prospects rather than the artistic appreciation. Many view NFTs primarily as a mechanism for quick investment returns rather than for the pure pleasure of owning a piece of digital art.

From my perspective, NFTs have become a dominant category of artworks that are seen first and foremost as assets and financial instruments. This reality is somewhat disconcerting, as the essence of NFTs – being a legal framework for digital art – is often overshadowed. It seems that in the rush to capitalize on these digital assets, the essential artistic value is sometimes overlooked. NFT creators, in many cases, are more focused on the financial aspect, with less emphasis on the artistic integrity of the work. This trend leads to the artistry of the subject taking a backseat, which is a concerning shift for someone who values the traditional essence of art.

Personally, I lean towards the ‘old school’ approach. While I acknowledge the financial appeal of NFTs and would consider them for investment and profit purposes, my heart still lies with the tangible, physical art. There’s a certain irreplaceable charm and aesthetic value in material artworks that NFTs, in their digital form, can’t quite replicate for me.

A source: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-aly-modleski/

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