Anna Pepe is a self-taught artist who lives and works in Tbilisi, Georgia. In her art works she is seeking the perfect balance and embracing the complexity hidden within simplicity. International travels and deep connection with nature provide inspiration for these ideas.
How did you get into art?
Growing up, my parents were involved in the art world, and they would often play baroque music, asking me to express my feelings through artwork. My mother instilled in me an appreciation for the beauty of nature and the small details associated with it. That marked the beginning of my extensive self-teaching journey. Several years ago, I made the decision to establish my own art business, embarking on a path that has led me from selling digital copies of my works to where I stand today. Now, I am fortunate to have a spacious studio, create large-scale canvases and receive private commissions from around the world. In addition, I have developed an online course for all the artistic people, aiming to provide guidance on enhancing their social media. In line with this, I am currently in the planning stages of a personal project designed to support emerging artists on their own unique paths, providing them with the necessary tools and insights to thrive in the art world.
How would you describe your style? What makes your work special?
Describing my artistic style is a bit challenging for me. Perhaps it can be best categorized as abstract figurative, although I am still exploring and evolving in my creative expression. Recently, I embraced a revelation that has brought a new dimension to my work: an acknowledgement of the two genders within me. It is not tied to any specific gender identification but rather represents the harmonious interplay of two energies, one feminine and the other masculine. This duality shapes my distinct visions of the female form—a delicate, ethereal figure traced with gentle lines and a bolder representation through abstract forms that still embody femininity.
How do you go about developing your work?
My main focus is on deconstructing the female torso in a minimalistic manner. Although my works may appear simple, they require significant time and thought. It can take anywhere from one month to a year to develop new ideas for an artwork. I carefully craft each form, seeking the perfect balance and embracing the complexity hidden within simplicity. My international travels and deep connection with nature provide inspiration for these ideas.
Who or what influences you?
Among my favorite artists are Jean Arp, Ellsworth Kelly, and Yves Klein. However, I believe that even the smallest details of everyday life can have a profound impact, similar to existing artworks.
Make us curious. What is planned next?
I'm particularly drawn to Ancient Roman and Greek art, often incorporating their forms, textures, and atmospheres into my work. A visit to Herculaneum near Pompeii left a lasting impression on me, observing how paint ages over centuries in wall frescoes. I also find inspiration in medieval church paintings, aiming to capture not only their visual effects but also the mood of that era. Currently, I'm planning to explore this style further and create pieces that deviate from my usual approach.
