Sipsik and Cheburashka on the way to summer Print

LAPPY MARY aka Maria Lapteva My journey as an artist began in childhood, when I first experienced the enchantment of art. I vividly remember drawing streams of orange lava from an erupting volcano in kindergarten. Those bright, pulsating colors and shapes left an indelible impression on my young mind. A pivotal moment in my life was my time in London, where I lived in a squat for almost a year, surrounded by creative individuals. This period was transformative, as I realized my true calling. Encounters with diverse artists and musicians inspired me to aspire for something greater than just a conventional job. I understood then that I wanted to dedicate my life to art and learn to create independently. Upon returning from London, I resolved to follow my dream and enrolled in the Estonian Academy of Arts. There, I immersed myself in the world of art with renewed energy and determination. My studies at the Academy were not only an opportunity to deepen my knowledge and skills but also a guiding star on my path to self-realization in art. During my time at the Academy and after graduation, many artists deeply inspired me. During my master's studies, the works of Georg Baselitz had a significant impact on me. To me, his inverted paintings reflect a decisive break from academic conventions in favor of realizing his unique vision. These works embodied a pursuit of innovation and freedom of expression, demonstrating that art could transcend traditional boundaries and norms. Other pivotal artists for me include Giotto di Bondone, Hieronymus Bosch, Boris Kustodiev, Pavel Filonov, Hilma af Klint, Emil Nolde, Cy Twombly, Mark Rothko, Dana Schutz, Peter Doig, Viktor Pivovarov, Erik Bulatov, Marlene Dumas, David Hockney, Alexandra Duprez, and many others. These artists and their works have become not only sources of inspiration but also guides in my experiments and search for my own style. I delved into various techniques and styles, striving to find a unique expression for my creativity. Today, my art is the result of a long journey of exploration and self-discovery. Through numerous experiments, inspired by great artists and my own experiences, I have found my individual style. My paintings are a reflection of my inner world and a way to express myself. My works invite viewers to see the world anew, realizing that familiar objects can take on unexpected forms and functions, thus revealing new dimensions of perception and understanding.