Meet Darina Bratkova | Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Darina Bratkova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darina, what do you attribute your success to?
In my opinion, the most important factor contributing to my success as an artist and the development of my brand is my unyielding determination. When I left my homeland due to the war in Ukraine, I lost everything — my home, my familiar life, and seemingly all opportunities. Yet, despite these hardships, my family and I did not give up. We started a new life in America and found the strength to continue pursuing art.

This determination is reflected in every piece I create, and viewers can sense this sincerity. People value authenticity, and when they see that I truly believe in my work, it creates a deep connection.

Moreover, community support has played a key role in my success. I am grateful to the team at Procaccini Gallery, who provided tremendous help in my adaptation and career development. Finally, continuous learning and adaptation are also very important. Art is a dynamic field, and it’s essential to remain open to new ideas and techniques. I constantly seek opportunities for growth and development, which allows me to stay relevant and find new avenues for self-expression.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in my love for nature and empathy toward the human experience. What sets me apart is my commitment to realism and the emotional depth I strive to convey through my work. I believe that art has the power to reflect the beauty and complexity of life, and I aim to create pieces that resonate on a personal level with viewers.

Recently, I’ve been exploring a new direction in my art by incorporating gold leaf (поталь), which adds a layer of richness and luminosity to my pieces. This technique enhances the realism and allows me to create a dialogue between the natural world and the divine. The interplay of light and texture in these works has been particularly exciting for me, and I’m proud of how this evolution has added new dimensions to my artistry.

Getting to where I am today professionally has not been easy. The journey has been marked by challenges, especially after my family and I emigrated from Ukraine. The loss of everything during the conflict pushed me to redefine my artistic identity in a new cultural context. I overcame these challenges by leaning on my passion for art, continuously learning, and seeking support from my community. The team at Procaccini Gallery has been instrumental in this process, providing not only professional opportunities but also emotional encouragement.

Throughout this journey, I have learned valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself. I want the world to know that my art is not just a reflection of my skills but also a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and thrive, even in the face of adversity. Each piece tells a story of hope, connection, and the beauty of our shared experience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One of my favorite places is Naples, especially during the Christmas season. The city is filled with a festive atmosphere, bright lights, and engaging events.

In Naples, there is the Art on Fifth gallery, which features works by many talented artists, including my own. Here, you can see a variety of contemporary artworks that reflect my creative ideas and style. The gallery actively supports local art and creates a space for interaction between artists and viewers, making it an important part of the city’s cultural life.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the team at Procaccini Gallery. Their support and belief in me played a crucial role in my adaptation and professional growth after moving to the USA. My colleagues at the gallery have become like family, helping me not only in my artistic endeavors but also in navigating the new language and culture.

I also want to mention my teachers and mentors from Ukraine, who instilled in me the knowledge and inspiration that I carry into each piece of work. Their lessons on the importance of sincerity and depth in art remain with me to this day.

Finally, I cannot forget to mention my family. Their love, support, and commitment to new beginnings inspire me every day. Without their backing, I wouldn’t have been able to overcome the challenges and continue my journey in art

Website: https://www.darinabratkova.com/

Instagram: darinabratkova_art