Friendship Print

Dreja Novak is a professional, full-time artist whose journey began in Slovenia, where she developed a love for drawing at a young age. Her passion for fine art led her to the Accademia Italiana in Florence, Italy, where she focused on interior design and decoration. After graduation, she furthered her artistic education at the private art school of Jože Ciuha, refining her craft and deepening her artistic vision. Throughout her career, Dreja has had the privilege of illustrating several children's books and exhibiting her work on prominent platforms such as the Saatchi Gallery, Talenthouse, Fine Art America, and Art Limited. Her achievements include winning first prize and receiving recognition in the Talenthouse Art Competition, which helped expand her reach to a broader audience. For over 20 years, Dreja has lived in various parts of the world, often drawn to sunny and warm locations. These travels have inspired her to use vivid colors and tropical themes in her work. During her journeys, she discovered the versatility and fluidity of watercolors, which quickly became her preferred medium. The ease of carrying a watercolor set allows her to capture fleeting moments of inspiration while on the go. Currently residing in Madeira, Portugal, Dreja is deeply inspired by the island's stunning landscapes and vibrant gardens. This has intensified her fascination with flowers and nature, which she strives to portray not only through their visual beauty but also through their fragrance, movement, and essence. In addition to floral art, portraiture plays a significant role in Dreja’s practice. She specializes in creating expressive, narrative-driven female characters using watercolors. The spontaneity and fluidity of the medium allow her to craft layered, emotionally rich works that tell stories through color, pattern, and texture. Dreja’s artwork is held in private collections around the world, where it continues to bring joy and inspiration to its owners.