Catalina Novac

Hello, my name is Catalina Novac. I am an artist with a deep passion for exploring happiness, joy, and well-being. I study abstract painting at the Art League in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, where I have the extraordinary privilege of learning from the amazing artist John Blee, whose work is featured in permanent collections at the National Gallery, MoMA, the LA Gallery, and galleries around the world.

My paintings are a celebration of our search for joy—the art of happiness expressed through the kindest, most radiant pastel colors. Inspired by Self-Determination Theory (Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, 2000), they explore the three psychological needs essential for a healthy and fulfilling sense of well-being: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

I hold a Ph.D. in developmental psychology from the University of Rochester, where I had the honor of studying with Professor Richard M. Ryan, a world leader in motivation and the science of well-being. I invite you to discover my abstract paintings.

Venice International Art Fair, 2026