Maryna describes her work perfectly when she explains
"Painting gives me an ability to express myself without having to say a word. I like working with mixed media such as acrylic, oil, gouache, ink and pencil. I experiment with texture and space. As a result, my work has a variety of looks. My paintings are very personal and are influenced by my emotions and imagination. I have been fortunate to acquire an Art education. However, I realize that ignoring the "rules" of formal training is what makes my art truly unique."
Excerpt from the Featured Artist article of the Suspense Magazine March 2010 Issue:
S.M.: Are there any artists who influenced your work?
M.B.: My mother influenced my work more than anyone. I still remember the smell of oil paint in her studio. I used to sneak in there and go through her unfinished pieces and dream about being able to paint like her someday.
S.M.: What inspires you?
M.B.: Love. Care, Affection, Compassion... There are so many kinds of love. I get inspired by feelings not things. I only paint when I'm happy so when a piece gets sold it continues to radiate its positive energy onto its owner.
S.M.: Do you have a specific process that you must follow when you begin a new piece?
M.B.: I have been taught to follow guidelines but I honestly don't do well with rules and restrictions. When starting a new piece I just let it flow and see where my brush will take me.
S.M.: Was it a struggle to re-establish yourself in the U.S.?
M.B.: It wasn't easy for the first few years but I've been lucky to meet so many amazing people who helped me along the way. I went through all the typical struggles of an immigrant but I'm glad that part of my life is over and I feel at home in Los Angeles now.
S.M.: What is your biggest challenge professionally?
M.B.: When working on a commissioned piece a client usually wants to see a detailed draft and that is a challenge for me. I can show a color palette, I can sketch a basic concept but I can never guarantee that the finished artwork will match the initial sketch. Every piece is so unique - it almost has a life of its own.
S.M.: Do you have an emotional connection to your artwork?
M.B.: Yes and no. The whole reason I paint is for somebody to enjoy the piece. I sell them, I give them away. I keep the flow going because I don't want to be one of those artists who hold on to their art forever. I want as many of my pieces as possible to be out there so people can actually enjoy them. Otherwise what's the point of having a gift if you don't share it with the world?
S.M.: What is the best piece of advice you have to offer someone starting out?
M.B.: Don't listen to anyone who says you're not talented enough. Yes, there are well established artists, art professionals and many many credible people in the field but their taste is not universal. Stick to your own style and keep going. Remember, you don't need anybody's validation to create what is beautiful to you.
