Olesya Izmaylova

Hello! My name is Olesya Izmaylova, and I live and work in Finland. I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. Presently, my artwork graces private collections in diverse corners of the globe – from Finland to England, from USA to Japan.

Through my work, I explore the delicate balance between independence, inner strength, and the quiet poetry of everyday moments. Sneakers and cats — symbols of freedom, individuality, and subtle rebellion — become central figures in my visual narratives.

Light plays a crucial role in my works. I love creating contrast shadows and bathing the canvas in a honeyed glow to add a cozy atmosphere to my paintings. The light, vibrating backgrounds and minimalistic compositions leave space for viewers to find their own emotions and reflections.
Freedom, for me, is not loud or chaotic; it is silent, graceful, and deeply personal. It is the ability to remain true to oneself, even in moments of pause. My works invite the viewer into a world where independence is a natural state of being, where simplicity becomes a form of resistance, and where small gestures hold profound meaning.

Through subtle textures, flowing lines, and restrained color palettes, I seek to evoke a sense of timeless lightness — a ...

My path to self-realization as an artist has been a long one: from an early age, my passion for drawing was evident. I attended art school and nurtured this talent. But then I decided to realize myself in more exact sciences and went to study engineering at the University.
Yet, the call of creativity remained strong and I continued to draw, accumulating experience on my own. Starting in 2014, I delved into oil painting and pastel, participating in an art studio in Moscow, attending master classes, and plein air sessions. Then, in the beginning of 2022, I ventured into acrylic painting, captivated by its ability to grant me a newfound sense of freedom in artistic expression. My prior drawing background allowed me to quickly master the medium and polish my unique style and technique.

Reflections of Self: Freedom, Fashion, and Light
This exhibition invites viewers on a unique journey through three key themes that shape my art: freedom, self-expression, and harmony. The series featuring sneakers and graffiti embodies the spirit of freedom, defiance of norms, and the celebration of individuality through street art. The series with cats explores fashion as a means of self-expression, highlighting the connection between personality and aesthetics. Finally, the series with light and women captures fleeting emotions, the beauty of moments, and the interplay between inner harmony and the beauty of the external world. It is a dialogue of freedom, style, and light, where everyone can find a reflection of their own self.