Ivana Ignjacevic Verified listing

As a portrait artist, painting is my most personal form of expression. It is a profound form of introspection and meditation where I delve into the depths of the human experience. I aim to capture this through the portraits that I paint, allowing the expression of the subject’s humanity and character to come through and one that I find, tells a story. Oftentimes, it's the relationship between the characters and their inner world interacting with the physical space that they inhabit.

I draw inspiration from my studies, experiences, and places I have lived. In my portrait paintings, I aim to connect to the beauty of the natural world and the depths of the human spirit. Painting is a journey symbolizing a necessary vulnerability in both the painter and viewer, one that seeks to question and possibly, alter one's perspective.

Portrait painting, or painting, is not only my creative outlet but a personal need and passion that I could no longer ignore, after facing a life-altering surgery. Life is too short not to follow one's art.

I paint in a traditional technique but in a contemporary realist style; I start with charcoal or brush drawing on the canvas, followed by a structured monochromatic underpainting which evolves into a more expressive application of color. I paint following the sequence of values from dark to light and “fat over lean”. My oil paintings are made with the highest quality of professional materials - assuring longevity and durability of the artwork.

As a contemporary realist artist, I specialize in portraits and figurative paintings that capture the character and story of each subject. My work often incorporates elements of magical realism and symbolism, drawing inspiration from the intricate tapestries of human experience, nature, and the natural world. I invite viewers to explore the narratives and hidden meanings within each piece.

Exhibitions:

Red Dot Exhibition-Miami Art Week Gato Gordo Gallery 2024 Miami Florida

Art from the Heart Exhibition 2023 Miami Florida

Ars Tempus Exhibition 2022 Milan Italy

Art Dubai DIFC Exhibition 2020

World Art Dubai 2020

World Art Dubai 2019 Exhibition; Emerging Artist Competition -Finalist

Gallery 76 Dubai 2019

Interviews:

Interview Aiglon College: https://www.aiglon.ch/community/news/news/~board/public-news/post/alumna-delivers-portrait-with-flair-and-words-of-wisdom

Interview Beautiful Bizarre Magazine:  Ivana Okereke: cross-cultural portraits connecting humanity