We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Natalie Reyne a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Natalie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The ‘Happy Nation’ series is a deeply personal project that I’ve recently embarked on, with three pieces completed so far: ‘Happy Nation,’ ‘Good Lie,’ and ‘Numb.’ This series navigates the complex landscapes of mental health, societal pressures, and the often taboo subject of suicide. It’s a reflection on the dichotomy between the facade of happiness we project and the internal battles we fight, a theme that, unfortunately, resonates with too many of us.
Why is it crucial to talk about these issues? In a world saturated with images of perpetual joy and success, the pressure to conform can be overwhelming. We’re taught to mask our struggles, to bury our darkest thoughts for fear of being deemed weak or a burden. But silence can be a prison, and for some, a fatal one. The ‘Happy Nation’ series is my attempt to break that silence, to create a dialogue that transcends the superficial and fosters a deeper understanding of the human condition.
Each painting in the series tells a story – not of abstract concepts, but of lived experiences. ‘Numb’ captures the monotony of existence when every day feels like a battle just to engage with the simplest of activities. ‘Good Lie’ delves into the societal expectation to always appear happy, even when crumbling inside. And ‘Happy Nation’ itself challenges the narrative that we must only showcase our best selves, ignoring the pain that simmers beneath the surface.
I believe art has the power to heal, to illuminate the darkest corners of our psyche, and to bring comfort to those who thought they were alone in their struggles. By sharing these pieces, I hope to offer solace to those who see a part of their story reflected in the canvas and to remind them that their feelings are valid, their experiences are real, and, most importantly, that it’s okay to not be okay.
Discussing mental health through art is not just about raising awareness; it’s about creating a space where vulnerability is honored, where conversations about depression and suicide are destigmatized, and where we can collectively imagine a truly ‘Happy Nation’—one where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported
Natalie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I was born and raised in Belarus, a small country in Eastern Europe. I had never painted on canvases until my thirties. Despite obtaining a degree in economics, I immediately started working as a programmer. Around the age of 29-30, a persistent idea took hold of me – to paint a small and relatively simple geometric picture, specifically on canvas. Convinced that canvases were reserved for professional artists and lacking even brushes at home, I lived with this idea for several months. Eventually, mustering the courage, I ventured to the nearest art store, marking the beginning of my journey into canvas artistry.
Living with this idea, I painted a lot, but it was all for myself. Things took a turn when a friend who was an interior designer saw my paintings. She insisted that I should sell them, and just for fun, I participated in a local fair. To my surprise, I sold four paintings on the first day. I was astonished but still didn’t fully see myself as an artist. I painted and engaged in street art projects more as a hobby.
Everything changed in 2020. Protests erupted in my country, and my political posters and statements gained recognition both within and outside my country. It escalated to the point where I couldn’t find any print shop willing to print my work due to its recognizable style, and they feared consequences. I even became part of a major event in my country as an artist. Unfortunately, I was jailed during one of the protests. Fortunately, I spent only 12 days in jail, but upon returning home, a new summons awaited me. Consequently, I had to leave the country (about two weeks after being outside, I learned that I made the right choice as I’m now wanted for my “previous merits,” which means real imprisonment for several years).
In 2021, I arrived in America, and after obtaining a work permit, I faced a choice: to find a “real job” in my field or pursue my dream of becoming an artist. I chose the latter. And now, for a year, I’ve been a full-time artist.
I pour my heart and soul into abstract art, infusing each piece with a unique story that reflects my inner world. My paintings are like snapshots of moments and emotions, personal yet universally resonant.
What makes my art stand out is its raw authenticity. Every stroke on the canvas is a genuine expression of who I am. I don’t stick to the conventional; my art is a form of communication that goes beyond boundaries, inviting people to dive into the intricate and beautiful tapestry of human experience.
My specialty lies in creating a connection through art, inviting viewers to not just see but to feel on a profound level. What brings me the most pride is the emotional response my paintings elicit. Knowing that my art can spark thoughts and stir emotions is the true essence of my artistic journey.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The core mission that drives my creative journey is to connect deeply with others through the universal language of art, to bring to light the unspoken and often overlooked aspects of human emotions and societal issues. My experiences, particularly those shaped by the political unrest in my homeland of Belarus, have instilled in me a profound understanding of art’s power not just to reflect reality but to challenge and transform it.
Through my work, I aim to offer solace, provoke thought, and inspire action. Each piece is an invitation to explore the complexities of our inner landscapes and the world around us, to find beauty in the raw and the real. My goal is to create art that resonates on a personal level, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences, perceptions, and the societal constructs that shape our lives.
Furthermore, I’m driven by the desire to contribute to a broader dialogue on important issues—such as freedom of expression, mental health, and the enduring spirit of resilience in the face of adversity. I believe that by sharing our stories and vulnerabilities, we can foster a sense of community and understanding that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.
Ultimately, my mission is to use my art as a catalyst for change, to inspire others to see the world differently, and to remind us all of the transformative power of creativity. It’s about more than just creating visually appealing pieces; it’s about making a meaningful impact, one painting at a time.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist, for me, lies in the profound connection that forms when someone truly resonates with my work. There’s an indescribable feeling of fulfillment that comes from knowing a piece of my soul, embedded within the layers of paint and emotions on canvas, has reached out and touched another’s heart. It’s about more than just appreciation for the aesthetic; it’s when viewers take a moment to delve deeper, to inquire about the story behind each stroke and the significance of its title.
This engagement goes beyond the visual—it’s an emotional and intellectual dialogue between the creator and the observer. Each time someone reflects back the emotions I’ve poured into my art, or expresses curiosity about the narrative underpinning a piece, it validates my journey as an artist. It’s a reminder that art has the power to transcend the personal and tap into the universal, to bridge solitary experiences with collective understanding.
Such moments are a testament to art’s capacity to communicate in ways words cannot, to evoke empathy, and to inspire introspection. They affirm my belief in art as a vital form of expression and connection, fueling my passion to continue exploring, creating, and sharing my inner world with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nreyne.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nreyne_art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nreyne/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliya-zhukava/
- Youtube: https://www.threads.net/@nreyne_art
Image Credits
Natalie reyne