Sandra Song

###### Get to know your new favorite artist with Cohart's 'Artists in Residency' series.

There are two things that make [Katrina Avotina](https://www.cohart.com/u/katrinaavotina/artworks)’s entire body of work instantly recognizable. The most obvious is her love of vivid colors that practically leap off the canvas, with her brazen use of punchy greens and hot pinks creating bold, movement-driven compositions that range from portrayals of [bright neon cityscapes](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/11050) to [storybook fantasies](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/11058). 

Much like the Impressionists that inspired her, Avotina’s paintings are dynamic and propulsive, energized by a sense of childlike joy and celebration. Combined with her cheeky sense of humor, her playful depictions of [rock ‘n’ roll cockatoos](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/13145) and [impish felines](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/10674) never fail to lift up your spirits and put a smile on your face. And since happiness is something we’re short of right now, we spoke to Avotina about what makes her paintings so delightful and cheery, since looking at one makes it hard to feel anything but optimistic.  

##### When did you know you wanted to be an artist, and how did you end up pursuing that dream?

Art runs in my family, so becoming an artist felt like the natural path for me. I began studying art at 10 and attended a specialized art school focused on classical art techniques and later earned my degree from the Latvian Art Academy. 

I feel incredibly fortunate to be an artist, as painting brings me immense joy, and my goal is to share that happiness with others through my work. I have a passion for bright colors, and I believe my paintings have the power to uplift people's moods in any space. Everything I create is positive and vibrant. My journey hasn't been easy though, because it's also taken countless hours of hard work and dedication to stand out in the art world.

##### What themes and motifs do you like to explore in your work?

I’m a naturally friendly person but, like everyone else, I experience ups-and-downs. Painting helps me push away the negativity. My love for cats and the idea of falling deeply in love are central to my work. Every piece I create is about love and always contains a deeper meaning or story. No part of my art is simply black-and-white, because each character and element has its own narrative to share.

Occasionally, I enjoy exploring unconventional, whimsical concepts. I’ve created a series called _The Famous World Travelling Giraffe Josephine_. They’re playful paintings with cats and mice getting along, and one even shows [a cat proposing to a mouse](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/10886). I like to infuse humor into my art and will often give my pieces amusing titles like “[Get Lost!](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/10676)” or “[#thelocals](https://www.cohart.com/artworks/10745)” to add an extra layer of fun.

##### Is there a reason behind your use of certain materials and techniques?
 
I primarily work with acrylics, because they dry quickly and have a naturally vibrant color. My paintings often feature landscapes, cityscapes, and animals, but I strive to be versatile and constantly introduce fresh ideas. I avoid sticking to the same themes repeatedly because I don’t want my work to become monotonous. 

##### Are there any artists or movements that have inspired your practice?

Having studied art from a young age, I’ve been particularly inspired by the Impressionists. Some of my favorites are Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas. I also like Piet Mondrian, Gustav Klimt, and Friedensreich Hundertwasser. 

Hundertwasser, in particular, has had a profound impact on me. About 25 years ago, I won an art award that allowed me to spend a month in Vienna, where I discovered his work. Seeing his work left me speechless and completely changed how I view art. I really admire his originality, creativity, versatility, and, like me, a love for bright colors.

##### What advice do you have for young people trying to break into the art world?

My advice is simple: study relentlessly, never give up on your dreams, and be patient. It won’t be easy, and I can say it’s still challenging after 30 years in this field. Being an artist is also the most beautiful experience I've had though, and the reward of seeing people love your work is nothing short of magical.


We’re living in challenging times, with wars, the aftermath of the COVID era, and people have less disposable income for art. This can make some months tough for artists. However, we have a powerful tool — our imaginations. Whether we create stories that are joyful or somber, as long as we continue to share these narratives with the world, good art will endure.

##### Who are some Cohart artists you’re currently obsessed with?

[Gabe Weis](https://www.cohart.com/u/gabe), who I've chatted with a few times. We've known each other for quite a while on the internet. There’s also [Ishita Banerjee](https://www.cohart.com/u/soulcurryart), [Randle Carter](https://www.cohart.com/u/randle), [Katrina Avotina](https://www.cohart.com/u/katrinaavotina), and [Paul-Emmet Costelloe](https://www.cohart.com/u/costelloe).

###### _This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity._

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Avotina’s paintings are dynamic and propulsive, energized by a sense of childlike joy and celebration.

Katrina Avotina Makes It Hard to Feel Anything But Happy

Katrina Avotina Makes It Hard to Feel Anything But Happy

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