Author: Mary W

Carlotta Schiavio, also known by her artistic persona YaTii Talisman, brings a fascinating mix of cultural heritage and experience to her art. Born in Italy and raised in Ethiopia, her identity is shaped by a rich fusion of Italian, Russian, Syrian, Austrian, and Ethiopian roots. She began her artistic journey in jewelry design before shifting to painting in 1998. Since then, her creativity has spanned continents, leading to a significant milestone in 2022 when her work was featured in a permanent exhibition at the National Library “Abrehot” in Addis Ababa. Her artistic path is one of continuous growth and discovery.…

Natali Antonovich’s artistic path is deeply intertwined with nature, spirituality, and the inevitable flow of time. Her work often emerges from simple but profound experiences, like a vivid moment she once described: “There was a beautiful Orchid growing in my room. Flowers seemed to fly up from its branched roots, like little birds or stars… I saw how they wanted to fly… but they were held by a thin, strong stem. One day, I see a withered flower falling off its stem… Then I thought that the flower’s dream had come true, ‘flight only after death.’ Then I wanted to…

Jesse A. Kantu, a graduate of the University of Houston in 2006 with a BFA in Sculpture and a minor in Art History, has built an art career around examining the shared struggles that define human experience across cultures. His work is marked by a deep dive into the fractures that exist within humanity, and how these can be reflected through art. In 2011, he founded Pyramid Art Services, an initiative aimed at helping others uncover their artistic identities. Kantu continued his educational journey by earning an MFA in Painting from Houston Baptist University in 2015. Much of his work…

Steffanie Samuels, an environmental artist, brings climate change into sharp focus through her work. After graduating from the University of Michigan, her artistic path began with a strong foundation in ceramic sculpture, where she earned numerous awards and recognition. However, her journey soon shifted to tackle something far larger – the climate crisis. Moving from ceramics into abstract environmental art, Samuels transformed her creative practice into a platform for climate activism. Her art is not just an aesthetic pursuit but a force for social and political dialogue. It serves as a reminder of the pressing challenges posed by environmental degradation…

Isabelle Magnin, a French artist, has always viewed the world as a tapestry of images. Art has been her companion since childhood, with drawing and painting woven into her daily life from the age of seven. However, her interests stretched far beyond the artistic realm. Her passion for science—particularly in fields like mathematics, physics, and algorithms—led her to an esteemed career as a researcher in Medical Imaging at INSERM. Throughout her scientific journey, she worked with global experts from the USA, China, Japan, and Europe, receiving accolades such as the European Federation for Non-Destructive Testing’s gold medal for innovation in…

Haeley Kyong, an artist whose creations move beyond traditional limits, connecting deeply with the human spirit. Her work is built on the idea that art can transform and stir the core of human emotions, often prompting reflection through her minimalist yet expressive pieces. Growing up in South Korea, Kyong’s path in the arts was shaped by a unique blend of cultural experiences and disciplined study. She honed her skills at Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and Columbia University in New York City. This mix of Eastern and Western influences in her education is evident in her…

Lidia Paladino’s artistic journey began with a focus on drawing and engraving, leading her to explore the dynamic world of textile design for an extended period. After a long hiatus, she decided to return to her engraving career, updating her techniques and embarking on a path that has brought her deep personal satisfaction. In 2003, she was awarded the First Municipal Prize for Engraving, an achievement that propelled her forward in her artistic endeavors. Paladino’s exploration of various media, including handmade paper and reliefs made from discarded materials, reflects her evolving connection with the material world. One of her early…

Camille Ross, born in San Francisco in 1964, has navigated a life shaped by contrasting environments and cultural influences. Growing up between the radical landscape of 1970s Berkeley and the quiet rural surroundings of Mississippi, Ross developed a unique perspective that is also deeply informed by her biracial identity and Cherokee ancestry. These influences are central to her photographic work, which explores themes of marginalization, identity, and the societal structures that define how people, particularly women of color, are seen. Her latest series, “The Women,” aims to shift the narrative around Native American and African American women. Traditionally portrayed through…

Kimberly McGuiness, an American artist, invites viewers into a world where imagination meets reality, blending themes of nature, mythology, and storytelling. Her work is known for its vibrant motifs and evocative narratives, often featuring animals like horses and peacocks, which represent beauty, freedom, and the untamed spirit. These creatures move through her art, guiding the viewer into a space where creativity takes center stage. Kimberly has a unique way of merging art with practical elements, creating interactive pieces that go beyond mere observation. Her books, journals, and coloring pages are not just artworks but tools that encourage active engagement. These…

Nancy Staub Laughlin’s artistic journey started after earning her BFA from Moore College of Art in Philadelphia, PA. Over the years, her works have been displayed in a wide range of galleries and museums across the East Coast. Her art has been included in both corporate and private collections, and she has enjoyed media coverage through articles and interviews. A standout moment in her career was when renowned art critic Sam Hunter reviewed her work, praising its “refreshingly unique” qualities. Laughlin’s approach to drawing is marked by a unique intensity and focus, and her style remains easily recognizable, even as…