Today we’d like to introduce you to Irina Ashcraft.
Hi Irina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In 1999, after moving from Latvia to Orlando, I was eager to launch my art career, having just completed my BFA in oil painting. I started by reaching out to local galleries (by looking them up in the Yellow Pages!!), and that’s how I connected with The Florida Frame House. That connection was pivotal; it led to my work being featured through Sotheby’s emerging artist program, where my work was sold to collectors worldwide. From there, I continued to build my career, balancing teaching art with showing my art at local festivals, and art shows. Now, I primarily sell my pieces through my website.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The struggle to live solely from my art was real. After a few years, I sought greater financial stability for my family through an art teaching position, which I’ve held for 22 years. Paradoxically, this security has liberated my artistic process, allowing for more experimentation and growth in my work.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Oil painting is my first love, and I’ve really built my career around it. I’m all about those bright, bold colors and creating a sense of movement in my work. But I also love experimenting with acrylics, mixed media, pastels, and even beeswax! Nature, landscapes, and still life are my go-to subjects. Even when I’m short on time, I try to keep my skills sharp with sketchbook painting series. Traveling is one of my biggest sources of inspiration, I always find fresh ideas for new paintings during my trips.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My artistic journey began with my parents’ unwavering support. My mother often recounts my insatiable need for sketchbooks (she said that she had to buy a new one almost every week!). My after-school art teacher, Tatiana Murashova, played a pivotal role, not only imparting essential skills but also encouraging my pursuit of visual arts in college. Finally, my college painting professor in Latvia, Anatolijs Zelch, was instrumental in shaping my understanding and mastery of oil painting. I also owe it to my husband and daughters for always being there and supporting my artistic pursuits, be it helping me set up a tent at an art festival or “holding down the fort” while I am out of town for a few days of painting or for an art workshop.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artworkbyirina.com
- Instagram: @irinaashcraftart
- Facebook: @irinaashcraftart
