Svetlana Ninkovic is an abstract expressionist artist from Belgrade, Serbia. She graduated from the Art Academy of Belgrade in 2006 and went on to become a successful artist both nationally and internationally. She’s had 20 solo exhibitions and over 30 group shows around the world and has participated in many art fairs. Svetlana is also a member of Art Circle and has a great following on Instagram where she regularly shares images of her stunning work and beautiful pictures of her in the studio.
Could you share with us what your childhood was like? Were you a very creative kid or did that surface later?
I’ve been creative since 1982 :)
When did you realise that you want to pursue a creative path in life and be an artist? You know when you felt that art for you is more than just having fun and expressing yourself.
While studying art at university I realized that this is what my career path will be. No compromise. Art is not only my work, it is my way of life.
Were there any major obstacles on your path to becoming an artist and if yes, how did you overcome them?
With any creative career there are obstacles but breaking through these barriers helped me achieve my goals. They challenged me as an artist to be better, more creative and stronger.
Can you talk about your creative process - what happens when you pick up the brush and start painting?
Oh... the famous question of standing in front of a white empty canvas... My process is very spontaneous. I would say it is pure and organic and subconscious up until the end of the creation process when I gaze and add a dash of conscious touch.
How did you find your voice and style as an artist and is it continuing to evolve?
Abstractism and aphorism were always of particular interest for me as it gives me the freedom of thinking and expression. Colours are the key determining part for me in general and my work. And that has defined my current style. I am not aware of changes of my style but when I look from a time perspective I see changes are present all the time. So evolution rather than revolution.
What kind of feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer perceiving your art?
I welcome all viewers’ perceptions and I have my own story, which I leave to them to continue interpreting it in their way. That’s why I rarely give titles as I do not tend to influence the eye of the observer.
What are your main sources of inspiration?
My current mood, which I channel through colours to express that particular emotion that I feel at that particular moment. When I look at any of my paintings, they always talk to me and I can recall the exact memory and emotion while creating it.
How do you feel about Instagram, which is very popular with artists. Do you think it’s a helpful tool? Are there any negative sides to using it?
I see it as a great tool to have a permanent exhibition worldwide.
What would you like to say to your 16 old self?
All is good and you are amazing!
What is your idea of happiness?
Little things in life. And awareness of the moment.
What are you currently working on and what do you have planned for next year?
I have a few exciting projects that I am currently working on. Stay tuned.
