A Year of Transformation: Embracing New Opportunities in the Art World

What a truly remarkable year it has been! It began with a whirlwind of change and unexpected turns, shaping my path in ways I never could have imagined. As I found myself finally healed and ready to reenter the workforce, little did I know that I would embark on a journey teaching Arts at a secondary school. The prospect of pursuing formal teacher training and obtaining qualifications lingers in my mind, but what truly matters right now is the joy and fulfillment I experience in my current role, surrounded by incredible colleagues and students alike.

Amidst the bustling transition from my beloved London to the enchanting Midlands, a surge of courage propelled me to take on yet another challenge—the Warwickshire Open Studios Summer Show. But I couldn't stop there. Suddenly, the world seemed open and brimming with possibilities. Strengthened by newfound resilience, I eagerly embraced a volunteer role as the coordinator for the All Saints Art group, a collective of nine talented artists brought together to showcase our work. Though it was a spontaneous decision made just before the registration deadline, I vividly recall the moment, standing in my new house with two young children in the background, as I eagerly spoke to Matthew on the phone, affirming, "I'll do it. I will lead everyone, and together, we will bring this show to life."

Little did I realize then the immense effort it would require, but here we stand today, a testament to our unwavering determination. Yes, we may be weary from the journey, encountering obstacles along the way, but what truly captivates me about this newfound community of artists is the remarkable synergy we share. As a united team, we seamlessly collaborate, trusting in one another's abilities and propelling each other forward. While we keep our doors open during the week, the best time to experience the magic of our art is undoubtedly over the weekends.

Reflecting on this transformative year, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that have unfolded before me. From healing wounds and returning to work, to teaching and embracing my role as a budding artist, each step has shaped me in profound ways. The world is vast, and my spirit feels unshackled, ready to explore new realms of creativity. Who knows what the future holds? Perhaps I will pursue formal teaching qualifications or delve deeper into the art world. But for now, I revel in the joyous present, surrounded by inspiring individuals and finding solace in the pursuit of artistic expression.

Printmaking Workshops: Monoprinting

I had wonderful opportunity to return to Framfield Allotments to run printmaking workshops. In my practice, I work in various disciplines including drawing, painting, printmaking but what I enjoy the most is to pass my knowledge to my students and share the learning process with them. The most exciting for me personally is the process of transferring images from a plate onto another surface – like paper or fabric. I try to make my workshops sustainable by recycling and upcycling materials and tools we use, and I demonstrate my unconventional practice, meaning I show how can printmaking be available in your own home setting, be it a kitchen corner, living room, garage or attic - you name it.

During my Master’s degree I have learnt to be independent from printmaking studios or workshop places simply because when I came in to University to print my degree pieces, the technician announced they are closing for 6 weeks due to Easter holidays (that’s what universities do) and I had a choice either create a plan B or turn on my “little stubborn girl character” and make it work no matter what. I rarely give up. It’s not in my nature. I’m designed to be a warrior. So, I went home, did my research and set up printmaking space in my living room. I invented my own methods and absolutely embraced the process. I absolutely loved what I did, how I did it, and of course I was very pleased with a result. Unfortunately, I had to take a very long break after I finished these pieces. I was pregnant at that time and suffered from terrible fatigue that didn’t resolve after giving birth. I burned out and developed RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis), chronic fatigue alongside many other symptoms. So, I had no choice but only focus on my baby and myself. I’ve locked my art and printmaking practice in a “drawer” until very recently I “opened it” again – one day I woke up and got back to it like nothing happened. Of course, I have done lots of work in meantime to fix my health and stand where I am here today. So, I was just so thrilled to have this opportunity to run printmaking workshops and share the minutia with these amazing people that came to my workshops. I literally felt like a Fenix rising up from ashes, lighting up the whole room to enlighten and empower. I feel supercharged when surrounded by creative, eager to learn, keen people and I reflect this energy back – this and my unconventional approach makes my workshops a unique experience.

Here’s what my students say about my workshops:

 “Anastasija’s Mono Print Class was the perfect afternoon for me and my daughter. Under her care and direction, we were BOTH able to create meaningful artwork that we would proudly hang on the wall!”

 If you’re interested in workshops please subscribe to my mailing list. I promise to send only useful content. I am moving house sometime this year (hopefully) but I am planning to be back in London in spring/summer for more exciting workshops and workshop series.

The Art Trail

An art trail is an event where local artists open their homes, studios or other local venues to exhibit and sell their work. This year I decided to show my work at the BEAT - Ealing art trail. I selected wonderful Framfield Allotments as my exhibition venue and I just can’t express what an amazing experience it was. I also can’t believe it’s bean a month already since I opened my studio door at the BEAT. And I’d like to thank everyone who came to visit! It’s hard to put in words what a substantial practice it was and how meaningful it was for my healing.

After being ill for the last couple of years I finally feel like I’ve got my life back. I had ups and downs, and the illness changed me and I’ve become a new person. This show was exactly what I needed to get that final boost and foundation for a new beginnings. I really like to learn about this new person I am becoming and I’m so pleased I was able to present the very best of me. Perhaps for some people it’s just a show but for me it was a rebirth. I’m still beaming after all the amazing feedback I have received. It gave me so much spark and joy and delight. I was very excited to exhibit my Masters Degree work and some older and recent illustration projects. Overall it was such a valuable experience. I was happy to meat all the lovely people of the Ealing borough.