Artist Interview | Ryta Slobodiana

Introducing Ryta Slobodiana, an artist translating intuition into layered wisdom, who graciously accepted our interview.

When it comes to your art, explain what you do.

In my art, owls become symbols of inner wisdom, protection, and quiet strength. I am drawn to them as guardians of the unseen—creatures that observe the world with patience, depth, and calm awareness. Through expressive brushwork and layered textures, I explore emotional states such as resilience, hope, and presence in the moment. My owls are not literal representations of nature; they are emotional portraits that reflect human experience and spiritual balance. By combining intuitive color choices with symbolic forms, I invite the viewer into a space of reflection, where stillness becomes a source of clarity and inner harmony.

What project are you working on now?

I am currently working on a series of mystical owl paintings exploring intuition and inner wisdom. In some works, I incorporate elements inspired by Petrykivka painting, a traditional Ukrainian folk art, blending contemporary expression with cultural symbolism.

Why do you do what you do?

I create art as a way to explore inner states and translate intuition into visual form. Painting allows me to slow down, listen deeply, and give shape to emotions, memory, and cultural roots. Through my work, I seek to create spaces of quiet reflection and connection.

How has your practice changed over time?

As an artist in emigration, my practice has evolved alongside the different stages of my life. Changes in place, identity, and personal experience have deeply influenced my visual language. Over time, my work has become more intuitive and layered, reflecting growth, resilience, and an ongoing dialogue between memory and the present moment.

What is your strongest childhood memory?

My strongest childhood memory is dreaming of having a dog and finally getting a puppy after I finished third grade. I remember feeling like the happiest child in the world at that moment. That dog went on to live a long and joyful life, and the memory still fills me with gratitude and warmth.

What is your scariest experience?

My scariest experience was the beginning of the war in my country—the sound of explosions, the uncertainty of each day, and the fear for my own life and the lives of my children. That moment reshaped my understanding of safety, time, and resilience, leaving a deep imprint on both my life and my art.

Describe a real-life experience that inspired you.

A real-life experience that inspired my work with owls happened during a quiet evening walk in nature. I saw an owl perched silently, observing everything with calm awareness. Its presence struck me deeply—a symbol of intuition, patience, and quiet strength. That moment stayed with me and became the seed for a series of paintings where owls serve as guardians of the unseen, reflecting human emotions, resilience, and the subtle power of stillness.

What superpower would you like to have and why?

If I could have a superpower, it would be the ability to do it all—to be a loving mother, a successful artist, and still have time to travel, rest, and enjoy life. With three children, it sometimes feels impossible, but imagining that superpower reminds me to embrace each moment fully.

What is your dream creative project?

My dream creative project is one that carries a social mission, where art becomes a second language. I want to explore themes of harmony, peace, and the preservation of nature, creating work that resonates with people and spreads more kindness, love, and positive energy in the world.

Which place in the world do you find to be the most inspiring?

The place that inspires me most is my family, but if I think of a specific location, it’s Oregon, where I live now. The incredible nature here—from the sound of the ocean to waterfalls and lush green forests—has been deeply calming, especially during my early years in emigration. This landscape has felt healing, offering both peace and inspiration for my art.

What are your hobbies?

One of my hobbies is doing face painting. I love creating colorful designs and bringing joy to children and events through this playful art form.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

Creatively, in the next five years, I hope to participate in major art fairs and exhibitions and continue to grow and evolve as an artist, exploring new ideas and deepening my visual language.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given is to never give up and to always paint with my soul. To not be afraid to experiment and, most importantly, to never betray the work I love.

Thank you, Ryta Slobodiana, for letting us peer into your creative journey.

Ryta Slobodiana
Oregon, USA
Ritaslobodiana.art