January 2024
I'm an Artist - Marusya Borisova-Sevastyanova
Marusya Borisova-SevastyanovaOur Conversation
Join us for conversation with Marusya (Maru) on a journey as an artist.
Discovering the Pulse of Creativity with Marusya
Dive into the vibrant world of Marusya, a visionary artist whose journey from commercial installations to the passionate pursuit of painting reveals the transformative power of artist residencies. Our conversation with Marusya unveils her exploration of new horizons, her quest for artistic identity, and the serendipitous moments that shape an artist's path.
A Tapestry of Experiences: From Moscow to the Mediterranean
Marusya's artistic evolution is a testament to the courage of embracing change. Originating from a strong foundation in commercial art installations, her journey into the world of art has been characterized by an innate drive to explore and express creatively. This exploration naturally led her to embrace painting, alongside her work in installations, as she sought to expand her artistic vocabulary and delve into new forms of expression.
Embracing the Unknown: The Catalyst of Artist Residencies
Marusya's journey is marked by a series of artist residencies that served as catalysts for personal and professional growth. From the structured environment of the School of Visual Arts in New York to the spontaneous creativity sparked in Greece and France, each residency offered unique insights and opportunities to experiment with her artistic voice.
2013: School of Visual Arts (SVA), New York, USA Marusya's residency journey began in 2013 at the School of Visual Arts in New York. Here, she immersed herself in the Sculpture, Art Installation, and New Technology department. This experience marked a significant shift in her career, moving from commercial art installations and still life photography to a more nuanced artistic expression. The residency at SVA was a turning point, offering her a platform to blend her commercial skills with a newfound creative perspective.
2021: La Chapelle Saint-Antoine, Naxos, Greece Fast forward to 2021, Marusya found herself in the serene and inspiring environment of La Chapelle Saint-Antoine in Naxos, Greece. This residency was particularly special as it culminated in a solo exhibition, showcasing her growth and exploration in painting. The residency in Greece was a period of joy and contentment for Marusya, where she discovered the ability to create art in a state of happiness, challenging her previous notion that art could only emerge from pain.
2022: Château Haut-Brisson, Bordeaux, France In 2022, Marusya participated in a unique residency at Château Haut-Brisson in Bordeaux, France. This experience stood out for its intimate setting in a beautiful French mansion, offering a rich cultural exchange and the opportunity to interact closely with guests. As the first artist in this new residency program, Marusya contributed significantly to its development, leaving a lasting impact on the program's future direction.
Residency-Like Stays at Friends' Houses Apart from these formal residencies, Marusya's artistic journey has been enriched by numerous residency-like stays at friends' houses. These informal residencies provided her with diverse cultural experiences and artistic inspirations, further shaping her artistic language and approach.
The Art of Transformation: Finding Joy and Purpose
Marusya's time in Greece was transformative, revealing that happiness and art are not mutually exclusive. This discovery was a turning point, leading her to produce works that reflected a newfound sense of joy and freedom. Similarly, her residency in France emphasized the importance of solitude and focus, allowing her to delve deeper into her craft amid the tranquil vineyards of Bordeaux.
Navigating the Future: A Continuous Quest for Growth
Marusya views her journey as an ongoing expedition, a continuous quest for growth and understanding both within and beyond the canvas. Her plans are fluid, guided by opportunities for learning, connections with galleries, and the ever-present desire to evolve as an artist.
A Message to Fellow Artists: Embrace Your Path
Marusya's advice to artists at the crossroads of their journey is profound yet simple: decide to be an artist, and embrace it wholeheartedly. The journey is fraught with challenges, but the decision to pursue art as a true calling can illuminate the path forward, transforming obstacles into stepping stones toward fulfillment.
Join Marusya on Her Artistic Odyssey
Marusya's story is a beacon for artists navigating the complex landscapes of creativity and identity. Her journey underscores the importance of artist residencies as spaces of transformation, where artists can explore, experiment, and ultimately, find their voice. As Marusya continues to chart her course through the art world, her journey offers inspiration and insight to all who dare to dream and create.
International artist residences that Maru has been to
- 2022, Residency at Château Haut-Brisson (Bordeaux, France)
- 2021, Solo exhibition at La Chapelle Saint-Antoine residency (Naxos, Greece)
- 2013, School of Visual Arts (SVA), Residency at Sculpture, Art Installation and New Technology department (New York, USA)
- and many more residency-like stays at friends' houses
How to find Maru
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Explore residencies
Vermont Studio Center (VSC)
Johnson, United States
The Vermont Studio Center (VSC) stands as a vibrant creative sanctuary, offering residencies for artists and writers in the tranquil environment of Johnson, Vermont. Offering private studios and accommodation, VSC is dedicated to providing an immersive creative experience, enhanced by the presence of visiting artists and writers who contribute through talks, presentations, and one-on-one sessions. VSC prides itself on its commitment to inclusivity, with various fellowships targeted at supporting BIPOC artists, women, Native Americans, and writers of color, highlighting its dedication to fostering diversity within its community. The center also encourages community engagement through a Community Contribution Program, allowing residents to actively participate in the local and on-campus community. VSC’s facilities are tailored for a wide range of creative practices, including a print shop, digital lab, sculpture shop, and access to traditional craft media, emphasizing its role as a comprehensive hub for artistic development.
Cafe Tissardmine
Tissardmine, Morocco
Cafe Tissardmine offers a unique artist residency in the heart of the Moroccan desert, providing a serene environment for artists to explore and create. This residency is designed for artists seeking inspiration from the vast landscapes and profound silence of the desert. Up to nine artists at a time can enjoy a 24-day stay, with the opportunity to engage with the local village and its children. The residency emphasizes the importance of being resourceful and inventive due to its isolated location, limited internet access, and the need for artists to bring their own supplies. The program includes accommodation, meals, studio space, and a sunset trip to Erg Chebbi's giant dune, aiming to recharge and inspire artists away from the demands of modern life. The selection process is personal and prioritizes artists committed to the full residency length, with a fee of 950 Euro covering most necessities and activities designed to immerse artists in the desert experience.
Mauser EcoHouse
Near San Jose, Costa Rica
The Mauser EcoHouse Artist Residency, established by the Mauser Harmony with Nature Foundation in 2019, is located in the remote tropical mountains of Costa Rica. The residency offers private and shared studios, set in a Spanish-style villa that promotes an eco-friendly and health-conscious lifestyle. Artists from all disciplines and backgrounds are invited to explore and create amidst one of the most biodiverse environments on the planet. The residency emphasizes sustainable living, with a focus on permaculture and the use of natural materials found on-site. Accommodations include options for private or shared rooms, with vegetarian meals provided to foster communal engagement. Artists have access to a large communal studio and an outdoor veranda for plein air activities, ensuring a variety of working environments. The program supports deep reflection and intensive creative work, free from the distractions of daily life, making it an ideal retreat for artists committed to environmental conservation and creative exploration. The residency operates year-round and welcomes applications from international artists, offering a unique opportunity to experience 'Pura Vida' – the pure life of Costa Rica.