In an age where abstract and conceptual painting rules the market, Bahrain-based Russian artist Irina Averinos’ stark realism separates her from the pack, writes Puja Tiwari.
When visiting Irina Averinos’ art studio and workspace at her house, the first thing I noticed was a large window with the spire of a mosque in the background on the far corner. Realisation struck on the second glance that it was one of the artist’s hyper realistic paintings.
“I’m an engineer by profession but art is where my passion lies,” explains Irina. “I fell in love with colouring and drawing at the age of three, and was introduced to the paintbrush in kindergarten. As time went by, I was more focused on studies and family before I returned to pursue my true interest.”
Explaining how she ventured into realism, she says: “I visited a museum for the first time in my childhood, and was taken aback by the works of a realism painter. It inspired me to achieve such greatness on the canvas and draw with great detail.” She went on to win many competitions in school but not once did it cross her mind to take up art as a profession.
I stumbled upon another one of her works hanging beside the dining table, which gave the illusion of 3D pink flowers popping out of the framework. “I am inspired by nature and everyday life. Colourful scenarios strike a chord with my creativity,” says Irina.
Positivity is the dominant theme behind each painting, which could be of a landscape, seascape, flowers, birds or animals. “Each of my creations emanates a positive, healing energy. I try to stay away from black or mix it with other colours if I have to use it,” explains the artist.
“Every one of these is as dear to me as my own kin. They are pieces of my soul, a memory of a very happy time in my life.”
Her favourite mediums to work with are oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel and mixed media.
Currently the chairperson of the arts group at the American Women’s Association (AWA), she was greatly involved with the Visions 2016 exhibition held in November, a two-day charity event where several artists and photographers displayed their work, with proceeds going to support the AWA’s many charitable efforts.
“The art scene is flourishing in Bahrain and what the artists now require is exposure. It is our pleasure to host them,” says Irina.
For the future, she hopes to hold the brush for as long as possible while trying her hand at different styles and techniques. “In this day and age, there are so many innovative mediums and different surfaces you can create something beautiful with. I want to constantly upgrade my skill set,” she adds.
Having experience in teaching art at schools and privately, Irina currently gives small group classes at her studio on a weekly basis.
Visit: http://averinos.blogspot.com/ or @iaverinos on Instagram.
