Inspired by energy, colors, and daily random encounters, Marina Chisty is a Russian-American artist who currently lives and works in NYC. Her abstract and figurative paintings embody the dynamism and multiple faces of the city.
Marina approached art from a very young age, fostering her artistic skills in children’s art school in Russia. Her Russian roots are relevant in the development of her creative identity, bringing her closer to abstraction and the symbolic use of color.
Since 2018, Marina has dedicated herself to refining her artistic practice at the reputable Art Students League of New York and under private tutelage. She now works from her studio in New York, constantly experimenting with new techniques and media. Currently, Marina is pursuing her MFA degree in the School of Arts Institute of Chicago.
Marina Chisty’s art is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of her experiences, inspirations, and the pulsating life of New York City. Her work captures the essence of the urban environment, translating the city’s chaos, beauty, and diversity into compelling visual narratives. Each piece is a testament to her ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary, to find beauty in the mundane, and to transform everyday encounters into profound artistic expressions.
Chisty’s early years in Russia laid a strong foundation for her artistic journey. The rigorous training she received at a children’s art school in Russia instilled in her a deep appreciation for technique and form. Her Russian heritage is evident in her work, particularly in her use of color and abstraction. The bold, expressive hues she employs are reminiscent of Russian avant-garde artists, while her abstract compositions reflect a deep understanding of the power of color to convey emotion and meaning.
After moving to the United States, Marina continued to develop her craft, studying at the Art Students League of New York. This prestigious institution provided her with the opportunity to learn from accomplished artists and to immerse herself in the vibrant New York art scene. Her studies there have been instrumental in shaping her artistic voice, allowing her to experiment with different techniques and media. The influence of her instructors and peers at the Art Students League can be seen in the confidence and sophistication of her work.
Marina’s paintings are characterized by a dynamic interplay of form and color. Her abstract pieces often feature bold, sweeping strokes of color that seem to pulse with energy. These works capture the movement and vibrancy of the city, reflecting its constant state of flux. In contrast, her figurative pieces offer a more intimate glimpse into her world, portraying scenes and individuals with a sensitivity that reveals her deep connection to her subjects.
One of Marina’s series is her exploration of the human brain’s plasticity in the face of climate change. This body of work examines how our brains adapt to the rapidly changing environment, highlighting both our resilience and the challenges we face. The series is a powerful commentary on the impact of global warming, using abstract forms and vivid colors to evoke the urgency and complexity of the issue. Through these paintings, Marina invites viewers to consider the ways in which we must adapt and innovate to survive in a changing world.
Marina’s studio in New York City is a hub of creativity and experimentation. Here, she constantly pushes the boundaries of her practice, exploring new techniques and media. Her approach is both disciplined and exploratory, combining rigorous study with a willingness to take risks. This balance is evident in her work, which is at once technically precise and emotionally resonant.
Currently pursuing her MFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Marina continues to evolve as an artist. Her studies there are providing her with new perspectives and opportunities to refine her craft. The MFA program is known for its emphasis on interdisciplinary exploration, and Marina is taking full advantage of this, incorporating elements of sculpture, installation, and digital media into her practice. This multidisciplinary approach is opening up new avenues for expression and allowing her to create even more complex and layered works.
