Here’s our Q & A with Inna Nagaytseva
Why do you make art?
Painting helps me share how a place feels, beyond just what it looks like. I’m drawn to fleeting light, changing weather, and the atmosphere of a moment. Watercolour gives me a beautiful way to express those things.
How long have you been painting?
I’ve been painting for 9 years.
Did you have formal art training?
No, I’m self-taught. I’ve developed my practice through years of painting, experimenting, studying other artists, and teaching.
Are you a working artist or a hobbyist?
I’m a working artist. I paint, teach, and organize workshops and painting retreats.
Who and/or what do you look to for inspiration?
Travel and nature inspire me most, especially the sea, dramatic skies, and places with a strong sense of history. I’m interested in how light and weather can transform a familiar scene.
What kind of music do you listen to while painting?
You’ll probably be surprised, but mostly alternative and black metal. At the same time, I have a large vinyl collection of The Rolling Stones, Joy Division, The Cure, and similar bands.
Have you had a mentor?
I haven’t had one formal mentor. I’ve learned from many artists whose work I admire, as well as from the conversations and experiences that come with teaching and painting alongside others. But the artists who have probably influenced me the most are Joseph Zbukvic, Eudes Correia, Andy Evansen, Julia Barminova, and Nicolas Lopez.
Do you paint every day?
I’m involved with art every day, although running a studio and teaching mean I don’t always get to paint a finished piece each day.
Do you paint one piece at a time or work on several at the same time?
Typically one in 30-40 minutes
Do you create a concept piece first?
Usually, I begin with a photo and idea for the light and atmosphere I want to capture. I leave room for the painting to develop as the watercolour moves on the paper.
Do you prefer painting in studio or plein air?
I love both. Plein air painting lets me respond directly to a place, while the studio gives me more time to develop an idea.
How many core colors do you use?
I usually work from a palette of around 5-6 core colours, then add a few colours depending on the subject and mood.
Tubes, pans or sticks?
Mostly tubes. I enjoy preparing my own palette and having enough paint ready for generous washes.
Do you use masking fluid?
Never
When do you know that your piece is finished?
When I’m thinking “I probably need to stop” For me better less than more
Join us online each week via Zoom or Facebook for an Up Close and Personal Conversation with John Cogley (Daniel Smith Owner and CEO) along with guest artists from around the world. On Thursdays (2:00pm Pacific), John and some of our Brand Ambassadors highlight a group of colors and answer your questions. On Fridays (10:30am Pacific), a guest artist shares a demo with their favorite tips and techniques. Click here for the upcoming week’s Zoom links.
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