Ukrainian artist Tania Belashchuk’s vibrant and dynamic work is a powerful ode to the natural world. Her art seeks to immerse the observer in nature, viewing landscapes “through the prism of water” to create a unique and fluid perspective. With a stated goal of encouraging people to cherish and protect the environment, Tania’s paintings are a meaningful reminder of our deep connection to the planet. She finds inspiration in the fleeting moments of beauty captured at sunrise and sunset, using her art to highlight the importance of biological balance and our role in preserving it.

The Spark: A Lifelong Calling

Gallerfy: Where did your journey as an artist begin?

Tania: "Since early childhood, I was into painting. I was always in creative groups, and I was very persistent that I wanted to pursue art as a career. For my family, in our rural area of Ukraine, art was seen more as a hobby, not a serious profession, but I saw it as my main job - the main thing in my life. I was always taking art materials with me everywhere, even painting homework for my classmates. I just had a talent and a desire for it since childhood."

Gallerfy: Your work has such a strong connection to the natural world. Was your environment in Ukraine a big inspiration?

Tania: "Yes, I grew up in a very rural village surrounded by fields and gardens. My family and relatives had different livestock, like chickens, cows, and rabbits, and I grew up in this environment. I would cycle a lot with friends, exploring the local fields of corn or sunflowers. It's very inspirational when you meet a sunset somewhere in the middle of a field and you see only the endless field around you. I fell in love with and developed a compassion for animals and plants from my childhood, not because I learned it from somewhere, but from my inner world."

The Inspiration: Chasing the Sunset

Gallerfy: You're currently in Thailand. How does travel influence your work?

Tania: "My dream was always to fund my trips with my art and travel, because I really love it. As an artist, it’s very important because you meet local artists, you find out about local culture, and you see completely different landscapes. Here in Thailand, the tropical climate means I’m always coming across new plants I've never seen before, and it's so cool for me to depict them in my paintings. I’m most inspired by the Buddhist temples; they’re spiritual, charming, and mysterious. I love to explore the handmade details, like the mosaics. It's so amazing to see that work."

Gallerfy: Can you walk us through your process for creating a new piece?

Tania: "I have a bit of an unusual way. I rent a bicycle or scooter and go for a ride close to sunset. I just take my phone and maybe a piece of paper and paints, and I explore the areas. I look for flowers, palm trees, or buildings and try to catch the best view from an angle where the sun is in the background. That's how I look for new plots for my paintings. I'll take a lot of pictures or paint a little sketch, and then I return home to my studio to start on the big canvas."

“My main goal is to inspire people, encourage people to cherish nature and environment and understand that nature is our home.”

The Craft: Underwater Impressionism

Gallerfy: You specialize in watercolors and have a style you call "underwater impressionism." What does that mean?

Tania: "From childhood, I’ve had a very close connection with water. I’m a good swimmer, a free diver, and a scuba diver. When I started painting a lot with watercolors, I noticed that the shape of my brushstrokes reminded me of the wave shape of water. I really feel this direct connection. My aim is to depict these landscapes through the prism of water, which is why I call it 'underwater impressionism'."

Gallerfy: You also experiment with other materials. What are you exploring right now?

Tania: "I really like acrylics because you can create different textures and combine them with other materials like epoxy resin and plaster. I’ve also started combining watercolor with polymer clay. I have an idea to combine watercolor with copper, with metal. The reason is not only to be creative but also because people sometimes don't have a serious attitude towards watercolor; they think it's for hobbies or kids. When you combine it with a more 'serious' material like copper, you have a bigger chance to be noticed and be considered a more serious artist."

The Journey: The Rural Artist's Challenge

Gallerfy: What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in your career?

Tania: "For me personally, it has been my location. Starting out in a rural village in Ukraine was very challenging because I was surrounded by communities who are not involved in art and don't consider it a serious profession. It was hard to start, make an income, and showcase my art. When you're posting your art online, far away from the professional community in the capital, you feel like an outsider and that you won't achieve anything. Communication and representation are so important. You have to be everywhere and you have to be really consistent. It requires self-discipline, and you can never stop."

Gallerfy: Finally, what's next for you with your art and travels?

Tania: “Recently I hiked Kilimanjaro, and my next plan is to travel in Africa (not sure how many countries yet). At the moment, I'm still exploring Tanzania. I would like to create some paintings here and share this process on my social media, together with other adventures, meet with the local people and explore the culture. I hope to find new ideas and approaches to create when I get back to Ukraine."