03 Apr Meet Alisa Galitsyna: The Ukrainian Born Artist Now Living And Creating In Barcelona

Born in a small town near the capital of Ukraine, Alisa grew up there among nature, having the total freedom to play and have fun.

Her father was a graphic designer, and her mother would always take her to museums, theatres, and art exhibitions since she was young. So the art has always been in some way a part of life.

Alisa’s acquaintance with Spain as a child influenced the choice of her profession and became a translator from Spanish. Later, while studying in Barcelona, she met her future husband and moved there. After several years of an office job, to her own surprise, she began to draw, which has become her main activity till the present moment. The spirit of freedom brought about the desire to create.

Get to know the talented artist Alisa Galitsyna in this Behind The Artist interview!

Has Barcelona or any of your travels influenced your work?

Yes, my works often contain landscapes both from my real travels and from my imaginary travels. In general, traveling inspires me a lot. Even a short weekend getaway gives you a chance to relax, reboot, and fill yourself with new ideas.

How have your current designs shifted in tone and style as opposed to your earlier work?

I think the tone hasn’t changed much. I love experimenting with colors and playing with different combinations – this may be the common thing between my earlier and current works. The difference is rather about the quality. I use more tools to make my designs more interesting and unusual. When I first started I simply didn’t know about the existence of so many tools! Now I really enjoy the results and possibilities of working digitally. 

Are there any different styles that you are challenging yourself to try?

I like using and combining different techniques and themes, working with abstract, patterns, and collage.

It all depends on my mood. There was a time when I worried that I wouldn’t be able to stop on one style. But at some moment I realized that there are no limits and that it’s more important to enjoy and let it flow, do what you wish here and now rather than stressing yourself out about the constant search.

What does it feel like to see your art in people’s homes?

Oh, it’s a very pleasant feeling! I’m overwhelmed with joy every time I see prints or decor items with my designs. It encourages a lot and sometimes helps not to give up and keep doing. The idea that somebody felt connected to my design and decided to have it at their homes, offices or hotels, gives me immense support.

Are there any artists that inspire you or do you have any personal favorites?

I don’t focus on personalities that much, I am just inspired by the art. It can be painting, architecture, films or photography. Each day gives a reason to get inspired by something. From time to time I go through Salvador Dalí’s art and his power of imagination, Van Gogh’s landscape paintings, Claude Monet’s Water Lilies series, Henri Matisse’s Cut-Outs, and get inspired by the unique architectural style of Antoni Gaudí.

How do you keep yourself inspired and motivated artistically?

I search for inspiration. I get inspired going through the works of famous artists, I follow the creation of my fellow artists, I like beautiful books and photos. Also I know that in order not to burn out and keep doing my beloved job, I shouldn’t force myself when I’m tired. It’s very important to let yourself enjoy doing nothing “productive”.

I find inspiration in many things such as nature, the day-to-day, traveling, colors, textiles, interior spaces and textures. Inspiration goes together with creativity and having new ideas. I love taking my morning cup of coffee while looking at visual blogs and social media, – it gets my imagination going.

What are you trying to translate in your work to those who see your work?

Ease, beauty, simplicity of the things around us.

How much artistic freedom do you like having when given a project?

Like anybody else, I like freedom, and, luckily, I’ve got plenty of it in this sense, but mostly I am the one who manages my projects. 

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a self-taught artist. When six years ago I first decided to draw in Paint, I didn’t know that I wouldn’t be able to stop creating something daily.

What’s the best part of being able to share your work?

When you share your work and make it visible to others, you have the opportunity to receive positive and negative feedback. Everyone has their own different feelings and thoughts. It allows you to learn and grow, and that is amazing.

What is your definition for success?

For me success is to turn your hobby into a career. Basically, when you can do what you most like, enjoy, relax, while at the same time it permits making your living with it.

What’s a goal you’ve made for yourself as a creative?

I consider an achievement being my own boss, create for myself and realise that my works make other people happier. Also it’s a great joy to see my artworks and designs on the websites of the largest retailers.

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