Marina Nazarova is an artist whose work transcends borders, melding her Russian heritage with Canadian influence and a profound connection to the art of detachment inspired by yoga philosophy. Armed with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver and enriched by her exchange program experience at L’École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Marina has developed a unique artistic style. Her repertoire is marked by a distinctive focus on back-turned portraits of women with their hair elegantly bound in a bun, creating a striking interplay of shapes and forms.
Born in Russia but having spent the majority of her adult life in Canada, Marina now calls Sao Paulo, Brazil, her home, where she operates her studio, crafting captivating portraits that resonate with viewers worldwide. Her strong connections with the Toronto art scene are maintained through collaborations with local galleries.
Marina Nazarova’s artistic journey was initiated with the completion of her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in 2011. This formal education laid the foundational groundwork for her artistic pursuits, equipping her with the essential skills and insights required to explore and articulate her creative vision. However, it was during her exchange program in 2010 at L’École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France, that Marina’s artistic trajectory took a profound turn.
Paris, a hotbed of art and culture, fueled Marina’s passion for portraiture, particularly her distinctive focus on back-turned portraits of women with a characteristic bun. This captivating approach would become the hallmark of her artistic exploration.
Marina Nazarova’s body of work is characterized by a deep exploration of the human form, especially her signature back-turned portraits. Her paintings feature anonymous women, their hair gracefully gathered in buns, creating a captivating interplay of shapes and forms. Marina’s brushwork seeks to capture the subtleties and nuances of these portraits, reflecting her engagement with yoga philosophy and practice.
Themes of stillness and detachment, derived from her yoga philosophy, continue to be prominent in Marina’s art. These themes invite viewers to reflect upon the complexities of human existence. In a world marked by noise and chaos, Marina’s art serves as a visual sanctuary, offering a space for reflection and reconnection with the present.
Marina’s preferred medium, oil on canvas, allows her to meticulously craft each portrait, enhancing the interplay of shapes and forms with layers and glazing. Her technique adds depth and dimension to her compositions, reflecting the dedication and precision she brings to her craft.
Marina Nazarova’s multicultural background plays a pivotal role in shaping her artistic identity. Born in Russia and residing in Canada for the majority of her adult life, Marina’s art is a fusion of Eastern and Western influences, creating a visual language that transcends geographic boundaries.
Now based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Marina finds fresh inspiration in the vibrant and dynamic culture of South America. The rich tapestry of Brazilian life, with its vibrant traditions and passionate people, adds yet another layer of depth to her artistic expression. Her studio in Sao Paulo serves as a creative haven where she continues to push the boundaries of her craft.
Despite her relocation to Brazil, Marina maintains strong connections with the Toronto art scene, collaborating with local galleries to share her unique perspective. This cross-cultural engagement underscores the universal appeal of Marina’s art.
In a world characterized by constant motion and clamor, Marina Nazarova’s art offers a sanctuary of stillness and detachment, brought to life through her signature back-turned portraits with hair elegantly bound in buns. Her unique portrayal of anonymous women creates a symphony of shapes and forms that invite viewers to pause and contemplate the beauty of the present moment. Her work is a celebration of the human form, a fusion of cultures, and an exploration of the mysteries of existence, all encapsulated in the mesmerizing interplay of shapes.
Marina Nazarova seamlessly melds her Russian heritage, Canadian upbringing, and Brazilian immersion into a visual narrative that resonates with the soul. Her dedication to crafting elegant portraits with this distinctive style, honed through education and experience, has resulted in a body of work that is both timeless and contemporary.
Marina’s art is an invitation to ponder the subtleties and perceptions of the present moment, encouraging us to embrace the beauty that can be found in stillness and detachment, captured through her captivating portrayal of women in their buns. With every brushstroke, she weaves a tapestry of emotions and experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us all of the profound significance of the present moment. Marina Nazarova is not just an artist; she is a storyteller of the present, and her canvas is an open invitation to join her on this introspective journey through the world of artistry and form.
