ARTIST STATEMENT
In my work, I combine linework of the female figure with bold brushstrokes, vivid colors, and the shapes of surrounding nature. I try to create a sense of balanced harmony and beauty.
My artwork is inspired by Art Nouveau, the amazing beauty of orchids, and the romantic whisper of trees on a quiet, sunny day. Using all of this, I developed my own technique working primarily in oil, and I call my style “Imaginary Expressionism.” I am painting dreams—an imaginary world where feminine beauty is veiled in a mist of nature, revealing its power.
Over the years, my process has become a way to let nature and imaginary female figures live together on the canvas. In my paintings, I use symbolic signs to emphasize feminine beginnings unified by nature, radiating energy and power. My canvas is a vibrant space where you can get lost for a moment, feeling a peaceful world and a healing power for your soul.
ARTIST BIO
Mila Ryk is a contemporary artist and a third-generation painter born in Ukraine and later immigrated to the United States, settling in Chicago. Building a new life from the ground up in a new country was a challenging yet deeply rewarding path. After finding her footing, she channeled her creativity into a successful twenty plus-year career in design and publishing, which included founding Art & Beyond Magazine Online in 2009 to promote independent artists globally.
Today, Mila has stepped away from the design world to dedicate herself entirely to fine art, where her heart truly belongs. Her paintings speak of soft power, deep feelings, and our inner world. Through her unique style of Imaginary Expressionism, she is deeply grateful for the freedom to express her worldview, pouring her dreams, feelings, and intuition onto the canvas using oil paints.
© Mila Ryk