Interview with Natalia Titova

Can you tell us about your background as an artist? How did you become interested in art?

My journey in art started years and years ago. I attended art school while also completing my high school education. It was a very exciting experience—we had a variety of disciplines, including art theory and a unique craft program. For example, we practiced an old Russian craft called Koklushki—a technique that uses wooden bobbins with thread to create delicate embroidery. I even won a children's art criticism competition once, where we had to write a paper about fine art. It was an unusual experience, but truly inspiring. So, for me, it has been a long and meaningful journey.

Your artwork in Home is titled “My Grand Women Part 1.” Can you tell us more about this piece and the series?

My Grand Women is quite a rare series for me because most of my work consists of digital collages dedicated to my other great passion—literature. I love combining these two powerful art forms, using them to convey meaning and emotion. However, from time to time, I create something deeply personal, something rooted in my own history.This project is very important to me because it explores the concept of women's heritage within a family. Kinship is a unique and powerful notion, and trying to embrace it can be transformative. Throughout our lives, we can sense fragments of previous generations within ourselves. We can literally feel traces of our ancestors—our Grands, as I call them. As Bulgakov wrote, “The question of blood is the most complicated question in the world.” And I would add—the most powerful.

How do you navigate creative blocks or challenges in your artistic practice?

Ahh, that is a tough one. It may sound trivial, but when my creativity stalls, I seek inspiration by looking at other artists' work. It is not about finding an idea to borrow—it is about refueling, nourishing my artistic mind, and reconnecting with the essence of art.

What mediums do you primarily work with, and why? Do you have a favorite medium or technique?

I am a digital artist. Digital art is the perfect medium for me because it gives me the sense that my canvas is boundless. I would also say that minimalism is a key part of my style—it helps me focus on the essence of a message by removing distractions. Through the simple use of space, shape, and color, I aim to evoke emotions and invite viewers to connect deeply with my work.

How do you see your art evolving in the future? Are there any new techniques or ideas that you’re excited to explore?

I want to continue developing in the digital medium, but perhaps one day, I will explore movement—animation or video formats. I have never worked with those before, and it would be interesting to try.

What do you hope viewers take away from your art? Are there any messages or emotions you aim to convey?

Through my art, I try to remind people to slow down. We are always rushing somewhere, always in a hurry. Sometimes, we need to pause and reflect. It would be wonderful if my work encouraged viewers to reconsider this—whether it is about a good book, family traditions, or something else meaningful in life.

What influences or sources of inspiration inform your artistic practice?

As I mentioned earlier, literature is my greatest source of inspiration. It is a timeless art form that resonates with me deeply. Books provide an endless well of ideas, and I find it fascinating to explore them not only as a reader but also as an artist. On one hand, I immerse myself in their stories, and on the other, I translate my impressions into visual form. My goal is to capture the details and essence of a book within my artwork.

What are you currently working on, and what projects or exhibitions do you have planned for the future?

Right now, I am working on a new series of digital collages exploring the dangers of relying entirely on artificial intelligence for creative work. I want to remind people of our own power and skills—we are still capable of writing great books, creating meaningful art, and excelling in our fields.

Finally, what advice would you offer to aspiring artists who are just starting their creative journey?

I would tell them to find their source of inspiration. In our field, it is crucial to discover themes that ignite curiosity—the ones you want to explore again and again, always craving to dig deeper. If you have that, you will always have something meaningful to express as an artist.

Natalia’s Website

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