What’s behind Anna’s artworks—what inspired her and how it all began?

Creative Process & Inspiration

1. What inspires you the most when you start a new painting? And what techniques do you use?

I’m always searching for images of people with a unique look—something special in their eyes, a hidden emotion waiting to be revealed. Distinct facial features also captivate me, adding depth and character to the portrait.

I typically work with water-based paints such as ink and acrylics, as I enjoy the freedom they provide for quick, fluid application. I’m drawn to the immediacy of these mediums, which allow me to work rapidly and layer efficiently. One of my favorite techniques is using a hairdryer to speed up the drying process, enabling me to apply multiple layers in a short amount of time. This method creates a dynamic interplay between the layers, often revealing unexpected textures and effects as the paint dries in various stages. The ability to build up layers quickly while maintaining a sense of fluidity and movement in my work is something I find incredibly satisfying. It’s all about creating an environment where the painting can evolve swiftly, while still allowing for the depth and complexity I strive for in each piece.

2. How do you choose your color palette for a piece? 

My choice of colour palette depends on what I call my artistic “periods.” There are times when I feel drawn to exploring a wide range of colours, while other times I limit myself to cool tones. Lately, I’ve been more interested in warm hues—especially oranges and reds. I also enjoy incorporating strong contrasts with black and white, which helps create a more vivid and dynamic effect in my work.

3. Do you plan your compositions in detail or let intuition guide you?

It really depends on the piece I’m working on. Sometimes, I prefer to create more figurative compositions, where the subject is placed within a larger context, incorporating elements that add to the narrative of the painting. Other times, I’m drawn to making a strong, statement piece by focusing solely on the face, emphasizing expression and emotion. In these cases, I let intuition guide me, allowing the portrait to take shape organically as I explore the subject’s features, mood, and presence on the canvas.

4. How has your creative process evolved over time?

My painting process is constantly evolving. As my artistic skills improve, I find myself focusing less on technical execution and more on the fluidity of the paint—how colours blend and interact on the surface. I’ve become more immersed in the moment, almost like entering a trance, where everything comes together naturally to form a cohesive image. Rather than concentrating solely on technique, my goal is to move toward more abstract forms while still capturing the mood and essence of the subject.

5. Is there a particular emotion or message you try to convey in your work?

My artwork is deeply connected to my mood and emotions at the time of creation. I’m particularly fascinated by Carl Jung’s concept of shadow work, which often influences my paintings. Each piece tells a story, but I don’t always know what that story is until the very end of the process. I let intuition guide me, allowing emotions and subconscious elements to emerge naturally. The final effect is always a discovery—something I feel rather than plan.

6. Do you have a favorite portrait you’ve painted? What makes it special?

Yes, one of my favorite pieces is called Archetypes, which is a surrealistic portrait showing two faces merged into one. This painting holds a deep personal significance for me, as it represents Carl Jung’s theory of archetypes—how we, as individuals, are all connected to universal, collective symbols and patterns. The blending of the two faces in the portrait symbolises the duality and complexity of the human psyche. I find this piece particularly special because it allows me to explore the intersection of psychology, symbolism, and human connection.

Personal Journey & Style

7. When did you first realise you wanted to be a painter?

I was 13 years old when I went on a group artists’ trip with my mother, who also is a painter. That experience was a turning point for me. I started with oil paints, as that was my mother’s medium at the time. My first subject was flowers, and I found the process incredibly engaging. I remember being fascinated by the plasticity of the paint, using a spatula to create almost sculptural effects on the canvas. The richness and texture of the medium captivated me, and I realised then that painting was something I truly loved. That moment sparked my artistic journey.

8. How would you describe your artistic style in three words?

Expressive, Intuitive, Bold.

9. If you could have a conversation with any artist in history, who would it be and why?

If I could have a conversation with any artist in history, I would choose to engage with the Impressionists as a group. This collective of revolutionary artists, like Monet, Degas, and Renoir, fundamentally changed the way we perceive and experience art. They demonstrated that art is not just about technical skill, but about exploration, research, and, most importantly, individuality. What fascinates me is their courage to challenge the conventional norms and their insistence on following their own artistic instincts. I would love to hear their thoughts on how they navigated the struggles of being misunderstood during their time, and how they maintained their passion for creating in the face of adversity. The conversation would be an incredible opportunity to understand the essence of creativity, freedom, and personal expression that they brought to life on the canvas.

10. How do you overcome creative blocks?

“When I experience a creative block, I take it as a sign that I’ve overworked myself and need a break. I believe that short pauses are essential for an artist to recharge and regain inspiration. Forcing the process never leads to good results—instead, I step away, clear my mind, and allow creativity to flow naturally when I return to the canvas.

Emotional & Symbolic Aspects

11. How much of your own emotions do you put into a portrait?

When it comes to creating a portrait, I pour my emotions into it completely. For me, each portrait is not just an artistic representation of the subject but a personal journal of sorts. It’s an intimate expression of how I feel, not just about the person I’m capturing, but about the world around me in that moment. Every stroke, colour choice, and detail can be deeply influenced by my emotions, my thoughts, and even the state of mind I’m in. Sometimes, the way I interpret the subject can shift based on what I’m experiencing or reflecting upon in my own life. Portraits become more than just depictions; they become a visual language through which I communicate my internal landscape. In this way, I don’t just create a likeness of someone’s face, but a piece of my own personal story, encapsulated in the lines and hues. Art, for me, is inseparable from my emotions, and those emotions fuel the work I create.

12. Do you think a portrait should always be flattering, or should it reflect imperfections?

A portrait doesn’t necessarily have to be flattering in the traditional sense. In fact, it can be far more meaningful and authentic when it reflects imperfections. Just like in nature, where no two things are exactly the same and beauty is often found in the asymmetry or flaws, a portrait can capture the rawness and humanity of the subject. It’s the imperfections that tell a deeper story, making the portrait feel more real and relatable.