Self-Taught Painter Liliya Ressam Returns to Art at 45, Embraces Flemish Oil Technique
At the age of 45, Liliya Ressam, an artist of Crimean Tatar descent who grew up in Russia, made a return to her artistic pursuits after a long hiatus. Transitioning from pencil to acrylic and mixed media, she has completed her first two oil paintings, titled "Children" and "Zeus." Notably, "Zeus," her inaugural large oil piece, employs a single-layer technique to express strength and character. Currently, Ressam is working on three Flemish-style artworks: a portrait of Viktoria Bonya, an image of Athena, and a still life featuring peonies. Her portrait "Children" has garnered over 5 million views on Instagram, showcasing the emotional resonance with viewers. Influenced by her grandmothers' narratives and artistry, Ressam's focus lies on evoking emotion rather than mere decoration.
Key facts
- Liliya Ressam is a self-taught artist who returned to art at age 45 after being directed to study economics.
- She paints in the Flemish style and has completed two oil paintings, "Children" and "Zeus."
- "Zeus" is her first large oil work, painted in a single-layer technique.
- Her portrait "Children" has received more than 5 million views on Instagram.
- She is currently working on three Flemish-style paintings, including a portrait of Viktoria Bonya, a depiction of Athena, and a peony still life.
- Ressam is of Crimean Tatar heritage and grew up in Russia.
- She left art school after six months because she was tired of drawing the same still life daily.
- Her grandmothers' hand-embroidered Eastern-themed works in dark colors influenced her preference for dark backgrounds.
Entities
Artists
- Liliya Ressam
- Viktoria Bonya
- Lenin
Institutions
- Singulart
Locations
- Russia
- Crimea
- Bakhchisaray