Svetlana Bogatcheva - The Power Of Art Reflect Ourselves And The World We Live In (Artist)

Svetlana Bogatcheva (1986) is a contemporary artist from Finland (Represented by Neon Gallery, London, UK). Her works have been exhibited in the U.K, Finland and South Korea and reside in important collections globally. She employs sustainable natural, post-industrial and post-consumer materials like textile, rubber, plastic, earth and ash. Her conceptually based practice challenges traditional notions of sculpture and painting, working in a dynamic manner that is defined by her impeccable skills in forming materials into works that invite deep contemplation and presence.

1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I studied digital media and used to work as a producer in digital innovation and advertising in Stockholm, London for a long time, doing global projects for forwards thinking brands like Nike, adidas and Diesel so got to know this materialistic world we live in from the inside in a way.

Since 2009 I also started to develop ideas and the language of creating works with post-industrial and post-consumer as well as natural materials. I have been back in Finland and focusing solely on my art for the past six years.

2. How and when did you realize your passion for art?

I have made things since I can remember, drawings, paintings, beadwork, clothing and other creative projects but it’s when I started to ask myself big life questions and to explore the answers -that I started to actually make art.

3. What are your views about sustainable art?

I think sustainability in art for me is mainly about the studio practice and the materials. I can control how I utilize and recycle studio materials, tools etc , how I ship works and how I travel. I can also choose to use more sustainable materials that are available in my smallish Finnish town.

The latter is more challenging for say paint, so I wish that large artist material suppliers would prioritize sustainability so that we artists can choose something that doesn’t harm our health and the planet. As I use a lot of spray paint, even the low solvent and water based kind has less options in terms of color and still is irritating to the lungs.

4. What is one thing that fascines you about art?

The power of art to reflect ourselves and the world we live in. Particularly exciting to see the works that will come as a result of the historical events this past year.

5. What impact do you want to create in the world?

I think on the most basic level I would at least like to have the opportunity to leave the world enriched or at least unharmed at the end of my life. I also teach yoga and meditation few hours a week. This intention to awaken, to transform and heal is present in everything I do and also the purpose of my art practice.

6. How do you plan to take your career forward?

I am a part of my gallery’s show in London in May and waiting to hear on a number of projects and grants. Right now I am developing a new body of work called “SUPERFUTURE”, a vision of a future that addresses the issues humanity is currently facing and one we could be hopeful about.