Can you tell me a little bit about you?
I was born in a small village, but at the age of 17 I moved to Moscow and still live here. I wanted to be an artist since childhood, but later the influence of parents and society convinced me to pragmatically adapt this desire, so I got the education of a graphic designer. Nevertheless, two years ago, I finally decided to become a full-time artist. I constantly look at the work of other artists, from the past or present. I got a bachelor’s degree in art history and now I am writing a master’s thesis on the Visual Studies program.
What ideas are you exploring in your practice?
Since I moved to a big city, I have been interested in the phenomenon of a passerby. I remember I thought if each of these people had the same rich life as mine. This is the realization of the fullness of being. And now I often depict passersby in my works. Who are they? What do they think about? I do not know and keep the opportunity for different interpretations.
Is there any subject or theme you’ve been particularly interested in lately?
I think we have a lot of «significant» information in the modern time, but minor events of our everyday live have a much greater impact on us. That’s why I depict very banal scenes and places in my artworks. I want to show the value of a minor.
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever had to do for art?
I am constantly asked to repeat the work already sold. It’s very strange, isn’t it? I never agree.
Do you have a day job or other work that you split your time between?
I combine artistic practice with the study of image theory. This allows me to take a different look at my own work.
How would you define “success” in art?
Exhibitions and money are definitely good. But for me success is to look at the finished picture and be pleased. I often repaint finished canvases with a new plot.
Find more at m-kostareva.com and on Instagram @marikostareva!
Leave a Reply