We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yvette. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yvette below.
Yvette, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Every time I create a textured painting, I take a risk. The bigger the painting, the bigger the stakes. Unlike traditional approaches where an artist might meticulously plan every detail, I embrace the unknown. I begin with an idea—colors I want to use, a pattern I want to explore—but I don’t fully control the outcome. The process is intuitive, almost like a conversation between the materials and my instincts.
Most of the time, the final result is a pleasant surprise—something I couldn’t have predicted but feels just right. However, there are moments when the vision doesn’t translate as I’d hoped. When that happens, the wood panel, textured materials, and my time are lost. I have to admit that not every risk pays off. Still, I wouldn’t change my approach. The thrill of discovery and the possibility of creating something unexpected are what keeps me coming back to the art studio!
Yvette, 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?
My name is Yvetka, and I’m an abstract texture artist with a deep appreciation for culture, language, and philosophy. My journey to becoming a full-time artist wasn’t linear—I was born in Estonia, lived in The Netherlands, and immigrated to Montreal, Canada, when I was five. Later in life, I also lived in Los Angeles and Shanghai, and I speak five languages: Ukrainian, Russian, French, English, and Spanish. These experiences shaped me, deepening my love for storytelling, human connection, and the small, beautiful details that make life rich.
For a time, I channeled this passion into teaching English as a Second Language while traveling the world. But art was always in my soul. As a child, I was constantly drawing, painting, and creating. Though I shifted my focus to academics as I grew older, I rediscovered my artistic side seven years ago, and it quickly became my true calling. Now, while I still have ties to education, I dedicate my creative energy to making my art come alive.
I specialize in abstract, textured paintings that blend colors, movement, and depth to evoke emotion. My work is about more than aesthetics—it’s about meaning. I thoughtfully title each piece, sometimes in different languages, to spark curiosity, reflection, and conversation. I primarily work with acrylics and modeling paste, crafting elegant and modern pieces for public spaces such as restaurants and hotels, as well as bespoke commissions for private collectors. I love collaborating on custom requests, weaving my artistic touch with my clients’ visions.
What sets me apart is my belief that art should be felt as much as it is seen. Texture is an essential part of my creative process, adding a tactile dimension that invites people to engage with my work on a deeper level. I also embrace the unknown in my process—I don’t rigidly plan my pieces but instead let intuition guide me, allowing each painting to take on a life of its own.
I’m most proud of the way my art connects with people, whether through a painting that resonates deeply or a title that sparks a meaningful conversation. My goal is to bring beauty, thoughtfulness, and a sense of wonder into the spaces my work inhabits.
When I’m not painting, I’m discovering uncharted travel destinations, experimenting with new recipes, hiking, and dancing to groovy tunes. If you have any recommendations, I’d love to hear them!
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I started creating abstract paintings seven years ago, and growing my art business has required relentless effort and resilience. I reach out to professionals in the field on a daily basis. Over the years, I have sent hundreds of DMs, emails, and applications, introducing myself and proposing collaborations. Most of these messages go unanswered, but I’ve learned that persistence is key.
Once in a while, I receive a response, and at times a collaboration comes to life. Those moments make all the effort worth it. The most challenging part is staying motivated despite the lack of response. Nevertheless, I keep pushing forward, knowing that every “no” brings me closer to a “yes.”
And then, there are surprises—the moments when someone reaches out to me instead. Those unexpected opportunities remind me that my efforts aren’t in vain, my work is appreciated, and my persistence is paying off. Resilience, for me, is about showing up and constantly moving forward. Don’t get me wrong—I have days, and sometimes even weeks, when motivation and creativity feel out of reach. During those times, I have to push myself to stay on course and keep moving in the right direction.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
At the heart of my creative journey is a desire to evoke emotion, spark reflection, and inspire meaningful conversations through art. My paintings are more than visual pieces—they are experiences. Through texture, movement, and thoughtfully chosen titles, I seek to forge a deeper connection between the viewer and the artwork.
I strive to create works that not only enhance spaces but also infuse them with soul and depth. Whether displayed in a home, restaurant, or hotel, my art is meant to encourage moments of contemplation and conversation.
Ultimately, my mission is to expand my reach, connect with people, and place my work in environments where it can be truly felt and appreciated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yvetkaart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvetka.art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvetka.art/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvette-grishina/
Image Credits
Some photos include an online home interior from Smartist App.