Project Calm – July 2019

125

DIVINE DECORATION

Have you always wanted to be an artist?
I studied dancing and dreamed of dancing professionally
or becoming a film director. But the situation in Russia (where
I lived for 25 years) was quite complicated, and my parents
convinced me to study art. So began my love for drawing.

Where does your love of pattern stem from?
I studied the history of arts and crafts. We made copies of
famous tapestries and carpets, studied Eastern and European
cultures, and developed our own decorative designs. I realised
how important it is to select a colour and build a composition,
and you shouldn’t be afraid of big, complex work.

Can you describe your creative process?
I first create a sketch in pencil. This process can take
three days to two weeks. Arranging all the elements in the right
place is almost the most important thing. Then I transfer the
sketch to a clean sheet and start working in colour, straight on

the original canvas. Paints sometimes have to be applied in two

or more layers, since acrylic has an uneven structure.

Do you have a sister?

I have a younger sister, we have a big age difference – 16

years. It so happened that she grew up alongside me so I have

such a big affection for her. And this is ref lected in my work.

Do you listen to music or podcasts?

I mostly listen to art podcasts. I really love Gucci

podcasts. Music is another big love. I always have one of the

Pink Floyd or Massive Attack albums on my phone, but the

other day I found a jazz band called Kokoroko and I love them!

What are you reading?

I’ve been reading Carlos Castaneda’s books. “For me,

there is only a way that I wander, any way that has a heart...”

sashaignatiadou.com | @sasha.ignatiadou

Sasha is inspired

by eastern

cultures, people

and nature. “I

like strong, free,

independent people,

so I unconsciously

draw these

characters. It’s

a reflection of my

own feelings too.’

Our cover artist, Düsseldorf-based artist Sasha Ignatiadou, talks about

building a composition and her love of intricate patterns.

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