Diana Ruban, a visionary Ukrainian artist, captivates audiences with her emotive and deeply personal artwork. Known for her ability to translate inner feelings into mesmerizing visual forms, Ruban’s paintings delve into themes of self-discovery, emotional vulnerability, and the intricate connection between humanity and nature. Her unique use of restrained yet vibrant colors adds a signature touch to her evocative works, making her a standout figure in contemporary art.
In this exclusive interview, Ruban shares her artistic journey, insights into her creative process, and details about her upcoming exhibition at the Albert Contemporary Gallery in Denmark. Discover how she channels her experiences and reflections into powerful visuals, creating a world where emotion and artistry seamlessly intertwine.
Not among my own, canvas, acrylic, oil, 145 х 125 cm
Q: Can you tell us more about your background and what inspired you to begin your journey as an artist? Was there a specific moment or experience that sparked your passion for art?
A: I was born in Ukraine, in the city of Kremenchuk. My city is quiet and not very developed in terms of art, which encouraged me to explore this area further. The first time I wanted to connect with art was after seeing my dad’s drawing. I couldn’t believe people could create something so beautiful, and it inspired me to learn how to draw with that same beauty.
Q: Your art delves deeply into the exploration of the inner world and personal emotions. Can you share how you approach translating these complex feelings into visual form?
A: I paint through the prism of feelings. For example, if I feel the desire to express my weightless love for life, I create images of women in a weightless dance. These images emerge from my imagination.
Immersion in the world (SOLD)
Q: You’ve described art as a “naked soul.” How do you balance this vulnerability with addressing societal issues in your work?
A: Through art, I’ve found myself. I study my feelings and learn to live anew. In my paintings, there is often a woman—not exuding happiness, but learning to live and love. The first thing she notices is the world of nature. I aim to immerse the viewer in reflections on life. To me, the most valuable gift is the ability to feel and experience love—for oneself and for life.
Q: The connection between external factors and personal worldview is a central theme in your art. How do you identify and express the external influences that resonate most with you?
A: I am motivated by self-reflection and advocacy for human rights, particularly for women and children. I have a strong sense of justice and am deeply aware of societal imbalances. The flow of thoughts about everything that impacts me can be overwhelming, so I channel this energy into art, expressing my hope for a peaceful life.
Left to Right: A place in the garden, 2024, canvas, acrylic, 132x148.5 cm : Night sky, 2024, canvas, acrylic, 132 x 148,5 cm
Q: Your use of color is a defining feature of your work. How do you select your palette, and what emotions or messages do you aim to evoke with specific colors?
A: I decided on my color palette a long time ago. These are often restrained tones, though sometimes they are brighter than usual, reflecting my vision and mood. I find my colors to be exquisite. In life, I am reserved, but in my paintings, I reveal my bright inner world.
Q: When viewers engage with your art, what emotions or reflections do you hope they take away? How important is audience interpretation to your creative process?
A: I hope that behind a beautiful picture, the viewer will uncover a secret, deeper world. This way, the painting will not seem as cheerful as it might at first glance. That is the essence of my work—I don’t explicitly reveal my thoughts but speak about feelings in a subtly veiled manner.
I want to be the wind, 2024, canvas, acrylic, 65x80 cm (SOLD)
Q: To wrap up, are there any upcoming exhibitions or exciting projects you’re currently working on that you’d like to share with us?
A: I am currently working on paintings for an exhibition that will be held in Denmark at the Albert Contemporary Gallery on Brandts Passage 31C, Odense.
My garden, 2024, canvas, acrylic, oil, 110 x 80 cm
Diana Ruban’s art offers a profound exploration of the human experience, seamlessly blending emotional vulnerability, personal reflection, and social themes. Her ability to express complex feelings through restrained yet vibrant colors creates a visual language that resonates deeply with viewers. As she prepares for her upcoming exhibition at the Albert Contemporary Gallery in Denmark, Ruban continues to solidify her place in the contemporary art world. Through her evocative paintings, she invites us to reflect on the beauty of self-discovery, the importance of nature, and the power of art to inspire meaningful connections.
To see more of Diana Ruban’s incredible work and stay updated on her latest projects, be sure to follow her on Instagram!
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