We recently connected with Elzara Yusufova and have shared our conversation below.
Elzara, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?
Making a living from my art has been a gradual and evolving journey. It wasn’t like that from the beginning, especially after moving from Crimea to Istanbul and then to St. Louis. Adapting to new cultural environments took time. However, in St. Louis, community support has been an incredibly important part of my success. I started building a following through online communities on Facebook and Instagram, where I could share my work and connect with local artists and art lovers. The local CRC (Central Reform Congregation) community played a big role, helping me learn new ideas and expand my network. Thanks to these communities, many new students found me, allowing me to grow my teaching practice. Eventually, I was able to open my art studio —where I could focus on creating and teaching. If I knew then what I know now, I would have focused on community-building earlier. It brought not only opportunities to teach and grow, but also meaningful relationships that have enriched my career. Without these communities, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I was born in Crimea, Ukraine, and have been surrounded by art and creativity since my early years. I studied architecture and, starting from my second year at university, I began professionally studying impressionist painting at private schools under esteemed teachers. This foundation helped me refine my skills as a painter, but my journey into making art my career wasn’t immediate. In Crimea, I had my own art studio, where I built a community of about 60 students and their parents. We organized master classes and plein air sessions, and our studio operated year-round, except during summer and winter breaks. We participated in various competitions and focused on developing the creative potential of children
After living in Istanbul and later moving to St. Louis, I found that art became not just a passion but also a way of connecting with different cultures and communities. In my work, I primarily focus on oil painting, often capturing landscapes, abandoned houses, and old streets that reflect resilience and transformation, themes deeply rooted in my experience of displacement and change. I also provide art classes for children and adults, helping them explore their creativity through impressionist painting and decorative applied arts. Teaching has become a central part of my work—it’s not just about guiding students technically, but about helping them find their unique artistic voice.
I strive to build meaningful connections with my students and clients, whether it’s through commissioned art or workshops. My personal experiences of moving from place to place have deeply influenced my approach to art, and I think this resonates with people who see my work and take my classes. I’ve built strong relationships within local communities, and it was through online platforms like Facebook and Instagram, as well as the local CRC community, that I was able to attract many new students. I believe in the power of community, and I owe much of my success to the support I’ve received here in St. Louis.
For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that my art is rooted in personal experiences and stories, often reflecting resilience and the beauty of transformation. Whether you are interested in taking classes, commissioning artwork, or simply exploring what I do, my studio is a place where creativity is nurtured and connections are made.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Building an audience on social media has been a gradual process for me, starting with Facebook groups where I connected with neighbors, local schools, and parents of potential students. These groups were crucial for finding clients, as they discussed children’s activities and leisure options. On Instagram, I shared my creative process and authenticity, highlighting the unique aspects of my classes and the benefits they offer. I engaged with my audience by showcasing my personality and the value of my work. For those just starting, I recommend the following: 1. Find Your Niche: Identify what makes your art unique. 2. Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and create polls to encourage interaction. 3. Use Hashtags Wisely: Research relevant hashtags to increase visibility. 4. Show Your Process: Share your creative journey to connect with your audience. 5. Be Authentic: Share your story and experiences. 6. Stay Patient: Growing an audience takes time, so focus on quality content and genuine engagement. By using these strategies, I was able to build a supportive and engaged audience.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
I have not yet formed a clear opinion on NFTs, as I have not studied this area deeply enough. I’m interested in the motivations behind this technology and how it can impact the art world. I also recognize that the market is unstable and can present risks.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elzaressam.com/
- Instagram: @elzaraelza
- Facebook: Elzara Yusufova
