Studio Book Volume 3 by the Arts of Heart Project is a visually stunning and thoughtfully crafted book that celebrates creativity in its many forms. Featuring 228 pages printed on high-quality 180 GSM art paper, the book offers an intimate look into the creative processes of various artists through revealing interviews and powerful photographs. The cover of this edition is a work of art in itself, with elegant gold foiling and gilded edges that add a sense of luxury and sophistication. It is designed by the talented Ukrainian figurative artist Iryna Maksymova, whose bold portrayal of women’s strength beautifully encapsulates the book’s theme of resilience and empowerment. Iryna’s contribution to the cover adds a deeply personal and impactful layer to this already remarkable collection.

Who is Iryna Maksymova?

Born and raised in Ukraine, Iryna Maksymova is a figurative artist whose work is deeply personal, reflecting her thoughts and experiences in a way that speaks to the world around her. Growing up in Kolomyia, a small town in the western part of Ukraine, Iryna’s surroundings played a significant role in shaping her artistic journey. Her early life, filled with the simple beauty of her hometown, helped her develop a unique perspective on life and art.

As she grew older, Iryna’s passion for art led her to explore new ways of expressing herself. Her work is not just about creating beautiful images, but also about sharing emotions, thoughts, and stories that are both deeply personal and relatable to a wider audience.

Iryna’s distinctive style blends her personal experiences with universal themes, making her art something that speaks to anyone, no matter where they come from. Her work is a reflection of her roots, but it also captures the shared human experiences.

Education & Artistic Beginnings

Maksymova’s artistic journey began with a solid foundation in graphic design. She graduated in 2013 from the prestigious Lviv Polytechnic National University, where she honed her skills and developed an understanding of visual communication. However, it was not until 2020 that she took the leap into the world of fine arts, holding her first solo exhibition in Lviv. This event marked the start of her exploration of figurative art and the deepening of her personal voice within the art world.

Artistic Style & Theme

Iryna’s artistic style can be described as figurative and naive, using simple yet striking visual forms to address profound global and social issues that touch her personally. She often explores the human body, representing both feminine and masculine qualities, which serves as a celebration of equality and the interconnectedness of all beings. Her works frequently feature silhouettes of women, symbolizing empowerment and vulnerability, while also conveying a broader narrative about identity and agency.

Her pieces often feature symbolic silhouettes of women, painted in a style that evokes strength, grace, and vulnerability. At the same time, Iryna’s art offers a voice to animals, creatures often seen but not heard, weaving narratives of their own existence. These elements together reflect Iryna’s belief that art should challenge the viewer, encouraging reflection not only on the visual but also on the concepts and ideas that lie beneath the surface.

Her exploration of Ukrainian primitivism plays an integral role in her work. With each stroke, she breathes new life into traditional symbols and patterns, finding fresh, innovative ways to represent them in her pieces. Through her work, Iryna seeks to bring global attention to Ukrainian culture, infusing it with modern energy while paying tribute to its historical significance.

Exhibitions & Recognition

Since her debut exhibition in 2020, Iryna has enjoyed a successful career, with both solo and group exhibitions spanning across the globe. Her solo shows have taken place in key galleries, including the Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in London (2023 and 2021), the Circle Culture Gallery in Berlin (2022), and Svitlo in Lviv (2023). These exhibitions have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying Iryna’s reputation as an artist with a unique voice and an ability to capture the complexities of contemporary life.

Her group exhibitions showcase her versatility and global appeal, with notable appearances in cities such as Madrid, Paris, Vienna, New York, Hong Kong, and Miami. Some of the most prominent group shows she has participated in include the “YOLO” show at Gärna Art Gallery in Madrid (2024), the MUSEAUX exhibition at Galerie Bessaud in Paris (2024), and the Ukrainian Dream exhibition at We & The World Kozytskyi Charity Foundation in London (2023).

Iryna’s works have been part of major art fairs, such as the Dallas Art Fair in the USA, Art Busan in South Korea, and Art Central in Hong Kong, further demonstrating the international appeal of her creations. These platforms have provided her with the opportunity to showcase her pieces alongside other leading contemporary artists and to engage with a wider audience.

Art Residencies & Awards

Iryna’s commitment to developing her craft has also led her to participate in prestigious art residencies around the world. She has been a resident artist at Giorni Culturali Svizzera – Ucraina in Lugano, Switzerland (2023), as well as at Residence Chapelle Sté. Catherine in Loire, France (2023). In 2022, she worked at La Maison de Temps in Kauffenheim, France, and at Hangar in Lisbon, Portugal, further enhancing her exposure to international art communities.

Her work has earned numerous accolades and recognition, with her pieces finding a place in both public and private collections globally. The Bunker Artspace Museum, the W Art Foundation, and the Hong Art Museum in Suzhou, China, are among the institutions that proudly house her art.

The Power of Art in Times of Struggle

Through her work, Iryna aims not only to capture the beauty of life but also to address the issues that touch her personally. As a Ukrainian artist living through a time of great political and social upheaval, her art has become a powerful tool for commentary. In her own words, she strives to ensure that her work doesn’t just speak to the eyes but to the heart and mind, encouraging viewers to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of our shared humanity.

Iryna’s work also plays a role in preserving and honoring Ukrainian culture. Amid global uncertainty, she is dedicated to promoting the beauty of her heritage, bringing traditional Ukrainian symbols into a modern context while maintaining their historical significance.

What Lies Ahead for Maksymova?

Iryna’s journey is just beginning. With exhibitions planned for 2024 and beyond, she is always pushing the boundaries of her art, exploring it not only as a way to express herself but also as a tool for social change. Whether she’s painting the silhouettes of women or the faces of animals, her goal is the same: to create art that touches people deeply, making them see the world in a new way.

Iryna’s ability to mix her personal feelings, cultural background, and modern style makes her one of the most exciting artists of her generation. Her art encourages us to think about our connections with others and the world, urging us to look at global issues with compassion and understanding.

As Iryna’s career continues to grow, she keeps inspiring and challenging those around her, leaving behind a legacy of hope, resilience, and connection through her art.

We wish Iryna Maksymova all the best for her future exhibitions! May her art continue to inspire, challenge, and touch hearts all over the world.