Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yana Nosenko. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Yana, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I first realized I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally while studying graphic design at the Moscow Academy of Design and Applied Arts. During one of my projects, I picked up a camera to complement my work, and that moment changed everything. I felt that photography gave me a new way to express my ideas, and I realized that this was the direction I wanted to explore further. Photography had always been a part of my life — I loved capturing moments with friends and family. But it was during that project that I understood it was more than just a hobby; it was something bigger.

In the fall of 2019, I moved to the United States to join the Creative Practices program at the International Center of Photography in New York. That year became a turning point for me. The program was intense, with classes, workshops, gallery visits, and field trips. I met incredible people — both classmates and professors — and learned so much from them.

Our group was very diverse, with people from 30 different countries. We constantly exchanged ideas and shared experiences. Even though the pandemic disrupted our plans and the program had to be completed online, it didn’t stop us from staying connected and inspiring each other. It was during that time that I fully understood photography wasn’t just a profession for me — it was the path I wanted to follow.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For those who may not have heard about me before, my name is Yana Nosenko, and I am a photographer specializing in fine art and conceptual photography. My journey into this field began while studying graphic design at the Moscow Academy of Design and Applied Arts, where I discovered photography as a way to enhance my creative projects. That initial exploration grew into a deep passion, and in 2019, I moved to the United States to study at the International Center of Photography in New York. It was there, under the guidance of inspiring professors like Allen Frame and Jean Marie Casbarian, that I truly fell in love with the medium and decided to pursue it professionally. I went on to earn my MFA in Photography from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, where I developed several of my most significant projects, including How to Brainwash Yourself in Five Steps, If You Keep Moving North, You Will Eventually Start Heading South; If You Keep Moving West, You Will Never Travel East, and Beds series.

My work focuses on themes of identity, impermanence, and the passage of time. The Beds series, for instance, involves taking a self-portrait every morning for the past five years. This daily ritual captures transitions in my life — different rooms, changing locations, and even shifts in my hairstyle — and uses the simple, universal symbol of a bed to explore personal and collective narratives. For my thesis show, I printed over 1,000 portraits in a massive 40-foot-high grid to convey the scale and emotional weight of the project.

What sets me apart is my dedication to long-term, deeply personal work that invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences. I strive to create art that connects on an emotional level while also pushing the boundaries of presentation and storytelling. I am proud of the ability to create work that resonates with people, offering them a space to see themselves or their own stories through my lens. My goal is to continue expanding the reach of my work, whether through exhibitions, collaborations, or community engagement.

For anyone interested in my photography, I want them to know that my art is rooted in authenticity and persistence. Whether it’s a personal series like Beds or collaborative projects, I bring the same level of thoughtfulness and dedication to everything I create.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

It’s about doing what you love. It might sound cliché, but it’s true. I love taking pictures, learning, and connecting with other artists. I enjoy bouncing ideas around and discussing meaningful topics. I’m incredibly fortunate to do all of this, to be part of a community, and to keep moving forward — even when the path is challenging. What I appreciate most about an artist’s life is its variety: one day, you’re a photographer; the next, a filmmaker; and the day after, a painter or an installation artist. I’ve always wanted to explore curating, and in 2024, I finally had the chance.

One of the most significant projects I’ve undertaken was my debut curatorial project, Border(less), at the MassArt x SoWa Gallery in Boston, MA. This exhibition explored the complex nature of migration, focusing on the experiences of individuals forced to leave their homes and navigate the challenges of assimilation and adaptation. Whether by choice or necessity, people seeking a new home work to rebuild their lives, reclaim their identities, and form connections in unfamiliar environments. The exhibition highlighted the struggles inherent in this process — finding a new place, managing transitions, and integrating into new surroundings.

Border(less) was met with great acclaim, shining a light on the participating artists’ talents and the importance of the subject matter. Curating this exhibition was an incredibly rewarding experience, leaving a lasting impact on me and, I hope, on everyone who encountered it.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

In my view, society can best support artists and creatives by valuing their work not just as a form of entertainment, but as an essential part of culture and community. Providing financial and institutional support is critical — whether through grants, affordable studio spaces, or funding for exhibitions and projects. This allows artists to focus on their creative process without constantly worrying about how to make ends meet.

Additionally, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where artists from all backgrounds can thrive is key. Spaces for networking, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are crucial for growth and innovation. Encouraging open dialogue and providing platforms for artists to showcase their work helps amplify diverse voices and perspectives. On a broader scale, there needs to be an ongoing effort to integrate art into public life — through public art projects, accessible exhibitions, and educational programs that encourage the next generation to engage with the creative world. When society sees art as a fundamental part of everyday life, rather than something separate or optional, it helps create a thriving creative ecosystem.

Ultimately, the most important thing is for society to recognize the power of art to provoke change, challenge norms, and bring people together. Supporting artists is an investment in the future of our culture.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yananosenko.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yana_olen/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yananosenko/

Image Credits

Yana Nosenko, Rebecca Morrison