Five questions to Diana Savostaite

Five questions to Diana Savostaite

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Diana Savostaite (born 1983 in Lithuania) is a contemporary artist who lives and works in East London. She uses oil paint and mixed media to create expressive, colourful, semi-abstract and shaped paintings.How did you get into art?

I was inseparable from art since I can remember. Drawing and painting was my favourite thing to do when I was a child, and it still is now. I studied painting at Vilnius Academy of Arts, and whilst there it felt like being at home. I instantly knew that I made the right decision by choosing to study arts.


How would you describe your style? What makes your art special?

I don’t really like defining my artworks. Once you describe something, it becomes affirmed and it kind of imposes an obligation to remain that way. It reduces the opportunity to grow whilst experimenting, to discover some new and unexpected ways of painting.

My paintings vary and each have their own style and story. They tend to be expressive, abstract, colourful; some are made in thick layers of paint and often combine recognizable elements of body or landscape. In my artwork I try to capture the feeling or emotion rather than paint realistic image of the world. How do you go about developing your work?

I love experimenting with materials and canvas shapes. The more I experiment, the more I feel brave to try something new. I have too many ideas in my mind, but sadly, not enough time to realise them, therefore some of the ideas must fade away. I also keep reminding myself not to be overly attached to the paintings, not to be afraid of ruining my work by painting bold or experimenting.Who or what influences you? 

I get influenced by looking at other artists work online and in real life. Listening to art podcast conversations. Being quietly on my own, sitting still and thinking. Walking in nature and observing my surroundings, from tiny little details to the whole infinite space. Colour combinations everywhere. Sound meditation and intuitive free body movement/dance.

What are you planning to do next?

Currently, I am applying to a few open call exhibitions to show my art. Soon I will be releasing new collection of semi-abstract American landscape paintings, inspired by my trip to the Grand Canyon and tour of the West Coast. After that, I am planning to start a new shaped painting. Ultimately, within the next few years, I would love to become a student again and complete an MA in fine arts. Instagram