Maryna Futymska is a watercolor artist hailing from Ukraine and presently based in the United Arab Emirates
Interview by: Ana S. Gad
Can you share with our readers what initially drew you to pursue a career in the arts and how your journey began at NAOMA? How did your time at NAOMA influence your artistic development, and what impact did the mentorship of world-renowned artists and professors have on your work?
I was initially drawn to the arts because of my fascination with how visual expression conveys emotions and ideas. Growing up in a family of teachers, doctors, and artists—my grandmother being a painter—I was surrounded by art from an early age. I began my journey at NAOMA, where I studied architecture while also taking academic visual arts courses. My time at NAOMA was crucial; it provided me with a strong foundation in both art and architecture and allowed me to learn from renowned artists and professors. Their guidance greatly influenced my artistic development, helping me refine my style and approach. Their feedback was key to shaping my creative vision and expanding my skills, setting the stage for my future career in both art and architecture.
You excel in various mediums, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, and graphite. What makes watercolor your favorite, and how does its complexity enhance your creative process?
Watercolor is my favorite medium because of its unique qualities and complexity. Its fluidity and transparency allow for a wide range of effects, from light washes to vibrant colors. The unpredictability of watercolor forces me to experiment and adapt to how the paint interacts with the paper. This helps me be more creative and find new ideas. Additionally, the layering and blending of colors in watercolor create interesting textures and give each piece a unique character.
With over 20 years of experience, how has your approach to art evolved, and what new techniques or styles have you recently explored? Any favorite world artist or art movement?
With over 20 years of experience, my approach to art has evolved significantly. I’ve become more experimental, exploring new techniques in watercolor painting. Recently, I’ve been actively using mixed media techniques, combining watercolor with other materials to create more textured and layered works. I’m impressed by artists like Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko for their approaches to color and form in Abstract Expressionism. I also draw inspiration from watercolorists such as John Singer Sargent, Jeremy Lipkin, Claude Monet, and Edward Hopper. Their unique approaches to watercolor techniques and use of color help me push the boundaries of my own artistic practice.
Can you tell us about some of the international exhibitions you have participated in, and what it means to you to have your work showcased on such platforms?
I’ve had the privilege of participating in several international exhibitions, which has been incredibly meaningful for me. These platforms provide a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse audience and engage with artists from around the world. Showcasing my work internationally not only allows me to share my vision and technique but also inspires me to continue evolving as an artist. Each exhibition is a chance to gain new perspectives and grow both personally and professionally.
As an architect and interior designer, how has your artistic background influenced your architectural projects, particularly those in Dubai?
My artistic background has profoundly influenced my architectural projects, especially those in Dubai. The principles of art, such as color theory, form, and texture, inform my approach to design, allowing me to create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This artistic perspective helps me to integrate unique visual elements and innovative designs that reflect the cultural richness of Dubai. By blending artistic vision with architectural expertise, I aim to craft environments that inspire and resonate with their inhabitants.
If you compared architecture and art. What you can express in the field of architecture and what in the art?
Architecture focuses on functionality, spatial organization, and integrating structures into their environment. It creates spaces with practical and aesthetic purposes. Art, however, emphasizes personal and emotional expression, exploring abstract concepts and evoking feelings without functional constraints. While architecture balances form and function, art prioritizes individual expression and aesthetics.
Could you highlight some of your architectural projects, such as the luxury hotels on Palm Jumeirah and Business Bay, and discuss the artistic elements you integrated into these designs?
Some of my significant architectural projects include luxury hotels on Palm Jumeirah and in Business Bay. One of the most interesting projects is the creation of interiors for the Kempinski Hotel (now Raffles The Palm), known as the “Emerald Palace.” This project features a classic style and utilizes very expensive materials, including gilded gold. I worked on this project alongside several architects and interior designers. It was truly unique and fascinating in terms of both design and aesthetics. On Palm Jumeirah, I also employed elegant modern lines and innovative materials in my projects to reflect the dynamic energy of the area. Each project combines functionality with artistic vision, creating luxurious and visually striking spaces.
You teach academic painting and drawing to both adults and children. What inspires you to mentor others, and what do you hope your students gain from your classes and masterclasses?
I’m inspired by the chance to share my passion for painting and drawing with others. I hope my students not only learn new techniques but also enjoy the creative process. I want them to build confidence in their skills, find their unique style, and take pleasure in their artistic work.
Your volunteer work is impressive, from supporting children in Ukraine to participating in breast cancer awareness events. How do these activities influence your art and personal outlook?
My volunteer work, such as supporting children in Ukraine and participating in breast cancer awareness events, deeply influences my art and personal outlook. Especially in the context of the war in Ukraine, it’s crucial to support children and help them cope with the challenges they face. These experiences help me understand life better and add more meaning and empathy to my work. They remind me of the importance of using art to assist and inspire others, particularly in such difficult times.
You’ve received a special certificate from the Consul of Kuwait and other honors. How do such recognitions motivate you in your artistic and volunteer endeavors?
Receiving the certificate and award from the Consul of Kuwait for my watercolor painting on Kuwait’s National Day was very significant to me. These recognitions inspire me to continue pursuing art and volunteer work with even greater passion. They affirm that my work has value and motivate me to strive for new achievements, knowing that my efforts are appreciated.
What future projects or artistic goals do you have, and how do you plan to continue pushing the boundaries of your artistry?
In the future, I plan to explore new techniques and materials to develop my creativity. I also continue to refine the techniques and materials I already know. I want to experiment with watercolor and other art forms, as well as collaborate with other artists and participate in international exhibitions. This will help me broaden my artistic horizons and find new sources of inspiration.
How has living and working in Dubai influenced your art and architectural practice, and what aspects of the city inspire you the most?
Living and working in Dubai has significantly influenced my art and architectural practice. The city’s vibrant and diverse environment provides a rich source of inspiration, from its stunning modern architecture to its dynamic cultural scene. The blend of traditional and contemporary elements in Dubai’s design, along with its luxurious materials and innovative approaches, has encouraged me to experiment and push the boundaries of my own work. The city’s energy and unique aesthetic continually inspire me to create and integrate new ideas into my art and architecture.
Read: Let the Shining Thought Be a Path to Creativity and Dissemination
How do you blend your Ukrainian heritage with the diverse cultural landscape of Dubai in your artworks?
Blending my Ukrainian heritage with the diverse cultural landscape of Dubai in my artworks involves integrating elements from both cultures. I incorporate traditional Ukrainian motifs, colors, and techniques into my work while also drawing inspiration from Dubai’s vibrant and modern aesthetic.
What advice would you give to emerging artists who are just starting their journey in the art world?
My advice to emerging artists would be to stay true to their vision and practice consistently. Explore different techniques and styles to find what resonates most with you, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Build a network by connecting with other artists, attending exhibitions, and seeking feedback. Most importantly, be patient and persistent—success in the art world often comes from dedication and resilience. Keep learning and evolving, and let your passion drive your artistic journey.
Read: Nadia Wassef – An Author and Pioneer of Egypt’s First Modern Bookstore
__________________
Ana S. Gad is a pen name of the Dubai-based, internationally acclaimed writer, scholar, journalist, editor and digital artist Dr. Ana Stjelja. In 2005 she graduated from the Faculty of Philology from the Turkish Language and Literature Department. In 2009 she earned a Master’s degree in Sufism. In 2012 she obtained her PhD in Serbian Literature (with the thesis on the life and work of one of the first Serbian women writers and world travelers Jelena J. Dimitrijevic). She is an award-winning poet, writer, translator, journalist, independent scientific researcher and editor. She published more than 30 books of different literary genres, and is the author of numerous research papers and essays on literature, feminism and diverse cultures (cultural heritage). She is also a digital artist (with special focus on the graphic design, digital collage art). She is the Editor-in-Chief of various online magazines: the Alia Mundi Magazine for Cultural Diversity, the Enheduana Online Literary Magazine, the Poetryzine, an online magazine for Poets and Poetry in English. She is also the founder and the editor of the Web Portal Eastern Pearl dedicated to the Eastern cultures, Sands and City Magazine, a Dubai-based online magazine on culture of the UAE and Gulf and Art&Act Magazine on art. In 2018 she founded Association Alia Mundi for Promoting Cultural Diversity. In July 2022, she successfully completed the Introduction to Psychology course at the American Yale University, where her lecturer was the university professor and world-famous (Canadian-American) psychologist Paul Bloom. Right now, she is a mentee of the Creative Spotlight Program supported by the British Council and the Thomson Foundation. She is a member of the Association of Writers of Serbia, the Association of Journalists of Serbia, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and Europeana Pro.
Courtesy: Sands and City (Online Magazine – Dubai) September 17, 2024
Photo courtesy: Instagram
