Secrets of the secret garden: how the exhibition-greenhouse in Belgorod helps to feel a connection with nature

In her paintings, the artist explores the connection between man and the world. The basis of the works for the watercolorist were plants from their own garden. Each of them gave a unique image and character.

It is noteworthy that living plants surround the paintings, so the exhibition-greenhouse can not only be seen, but also felt. For this, olfactory objects work - dried flowers of roses, lavender and wormwood. So the artist invites guests to become her co-authors and compare the images that arose from her with those that were born from visitors.

All over the world

Marina Trushnikova graduated from art school in Vladivostok with a degree in “Artist-teacher”, then received higher education at the Khabarovsk Pedagogical University at the Faculty of Art and Graphics. After that, she graduated from calligraphic painting courses in China.

For 25 years, the artist combined teaching and creative activity. Five years ago, the watercolorist completed her teaching career to fully focus on creativity.

The geography of the artist’s exhibitions is extensive: Russia, USA, India, Finland, China, France, Poland and other countries. The first exhibition was seen by the audience in 1998. And from 1999 to 2008, Marina Trushnikova was the chairman of the self-organized Creative Association of Young Artists Komsomolsga-on-Amur (TOMKA). During this time, the watercolorist organized 12 exhibitions and several city performative and artistic actions. She is a member of the International Art Foundation and IWS Globe (International Watercolor Society).

The path from self to image

The basis for all the works of the artist was reasoning about the feelings of plants in her garden. And then she noticed that sometimes her thoughts do not agree with the conventional ones. So there was the first work: watercolor "Otterhead". Jasmine tea.

Marina Trushnikova portrayed a common misconception: people often confuse blackberry and jasmine. However, they are two completely different plants. And, despite the fact that they are completely different, the name “jasmine” people associated with the tartan so firmly that sometimes draw it instead of a tropical vine. And so the wrong norm was established.

As the artist noted, it is important that people take a new look at nature, what surrounds them. Therefore, dry flowers are present at the exhibition. Each work is dedicated to a specific plant, and some of them have such a strong aroma that it becomes the leading meaning.

“Smell is a very powerful factor for our psyche. It awakens memories, changes our state and emotions. I wanted the audience to have the opportunity to feel the conditions that are depicted in the picture through the smells, the watercolorist shared.

The power of art

As Trushnikova noted, the main thing for the creator is to follow his heart and not try to imitate someone. Those who are just beginning their career in art need to be prepared for a lot of work, a share of uncertainty and constant learning and improvement.

“Art is not an easy field; it requires dedication and a willingness to overcome both external and internal barriers. But if you are ready for this, then creativity can bring you a tremendous sense of happiness and self-realization, the artist shared her advice.

You can see the works of Marina Trushnikova in the gallery of contemporary art "CC October" until October 11.

Recall that in the local history Museum of Belgorod there will be paintings for the visually impaired.