Hello. I am a Belarusian-American poet and artist based in London.
An author of three books of poetry in Russian, I am now pursuing an MFA at NYU and working on my first novel in English.
My blog has over 30k followers.
My work has been published in the New York Times and selected for Poetry Archive. A list of other publications can be found here.
Born in Minsk, I have lived in the UK, USA and Greece. My art is often an extension of my written work, and the other way around. "As painting is, so is poetry," as Horace put in 19 BC.
Personal Statement
As an interdisciplinary creator, I consider writing to be the main focus of my work. Informed by my nomadic course of life and familial artistic heritage, my art explores themes of migration, identity, and belonging. My grandfather's unfulfilled artistic aspirations and my other grandfather's life-altering encounter with a renowned Belarusian poet serve as poignant reminders of the complexities of creative expression in the face of historical trauma.
My quest for belonging and understanding in a world marked by upheaval is reflected in my creative output. From childhood intimidation by somber paintings of the national artist union chairman in Minsk to the transformative experiences in London's vibrant art scene as a young adult, I have continually sought to reconcile the darkness of history with creativity: turning wounds into art, without multiplying sorrow.
My recent artistic output has been propelled by profound geopolitical shifts, notably the political crisis in Belarus, and Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine. My work now grapples with themes of memory, renewal, and resilience in the face of atrocities.
Drawing on Greek philosophy, my artistic practice mirrors my fragmented identity, weaving together disparate elements into a cohesive whole, while also serving as a testament to the transformative power of art.
Another important theoretical reference point for me is Susan Sontag, particularly her personal diaries. Art is a form of consciousness, Sontag believed. To grasp universal truths, one must first strive to understand oneself.
As I continue my MFA studies and expand my artistic horizons, I remain committed to creating work that speaks to the universal human experience. In the aftermath of conflict and upheaval, I try to envision a future where art serves as a beacon of hope, guiding humanity towards healing, reconciliation, and renewal.
Selected Books
"Анталогія паэтак" Anthology of female poets from Belarus, edited by Valzhyna Mort, Blafbaum, Berlin, 2023
"Полюса" Poetry and essays, Halijafi, Minsk, 2017
"Записки в пути" Poetry, Boslen, Moscow, 2014
For the full list, please see Writing.
Exhibitions
Underneath Charleston, SC, 2022
Greener Grass Roots Art Gallery, Pisa, 2024 (group show)
"Линии жизни" Institut Cultury, Minsk, 2019
"Части целого" Savitsky Gallery, Minsk, 2018
"Части целого. Витебск" Dzvina Art Center, Vitebsk, 2018
Press on the link to read my bio and Personal Statement.