Name: Yana Aria

Hometown: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Current City/Neighborhood: Everett

Your Medium/Craft: Oil Painting

Years doing your craft: 20

How did you first get started in your craft?

I went in to an art school when I was 5, and continued to follow my hobby through university up until now. My grandfather is a producer and my dad is a video operator, so I guess it runs in the family!

Favorite Artist(s) and/or Inspirations?

My favorite artist is Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. I love how he uses lighting in his paintings and shows an emotional state of people.

Favorite Piece You've Created?

The portrait of my Grandpa.

What’s the most challenging part of being an artist, or something you had to overcome?

The most challenging part is to stay true to my own ideas and how I see my paintings, not how the public would like them to be.

How can people be supportive of the arts?

Visit museums and art galleries!

Favorite quote and/or words to live by?

Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars.

What's next for you?

To pursue my passion and to be recognizable.

Where can people see more of your art?

Instagram and my website.

Do you know a local artist who would like to be featured? send them here for a chance to be our next featured artist.

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