Tanya Avchinnikova PS

Statement

Tactile sensation, direct communication with pure pigment, freedom of applying it on surface straight away, that’s what Avchinnikova loves about pastel. For Avchinnikova, there is something very intimate about pastel, very personal. No mediums in between, just you and pastels…

Avchinnikova paints seascapes and landscapes of the UK, focusing on closeups. It is a reflection of her personal wish to be at those beautiful places, and with every mark made, Avchinnikova can experience the feeling of being there again and again. She stipulates that this could be the reason she works in series. In Avchinnikova's works, she tries to create the illusion of presence and deep unity with nature. 

Everything exists because of vibrations of earth and water. Water and grass are the best objects to Avchinnikova to visualise vibrations and movement. She likes to watch how the light travels on water, from wave to wave; how wind creates glare on the grass on a sunny day while moving it. Avchinnikova likes to see the traces of “invisible” things, catch them, and paint them. 

Methodology

Avchinnikova thinks the different moods of the scenes tells the painting approach. Avchinnikova can’t paint water slowly. Even if it’s a large detailed seascape - she delivers spontaneous mark making. Water moves and she follows its flow. And tranquil landscapes with marshes, rivers require tranquil mark making. 

Memberships

The Pastel Society 

Signature Artist of The Pastel Society of America 

Scholarships, Awards, Prizes

Unison Colour Young Artist Award 2022, The Pastel Society  

The President’s Award, 51st “Enduring Brilliance” Annual Exhibition, The Pastel Society of America, 2023

2024 West Design Award, The Pastel Society

Honorable Mention Award, The 5th Water International Juried Art Competition 2024

Exhibitions

Mall Galleries, London

The Gallery Holt, Holt, Norfolk 

RBSA Gallery, Birmingham 

The Linden Hall Studio, Deal, Kent 

The Harbour Gallery, Portscatho, Truro, Cornwall