ARTIST STATEMENT

I paint with acrylic on canvas and metal. Painting on big canvases and metal sheets of various sizes, I try to create an illusion of reflection. Working on metal sheets, I see my reflection in the unpainted areas through the abstract cloud-like strokes I make, and that makes me think deeper of what I am thinking of at that very moment. The neutral color of metallic sheets works for me as a background color. On both metal and canvas, I use achromatic gray as a base, which represents calmness and neutrality to me. The colors I choose depict various feelings and emotions. I am fascinated by the density of gloss I put on top of my paint, which also reminds me of water. Also, my interest is not only what is on the front, but is also what is on the back: I attach stretchers on my works on metal so they have a small shadow on the wall.
    I love to play with the idea of metal being ‘heavy’ and ‘light’ at the same time. I paint with palette knives and other metal objects. The idea of a hard edge on a hard surface or big, bold canvases is masculine, but the way I apply paint is subtle, my strokes are soft, and it is all about sensuality and femininity for me. In this way, I challenge myself to use ‘strong’ materials, but create a sensual impact by working in a delicate and subtle way.

BIOGRAPHY

Sofia Echa was born in 1992 in Vladivostok, Russia and settled in New York City in 2013 to continue her pursuit of a career in art after she received a bachelor degree in Economics and Japanese studies at Federal University of Vladivostok, Russia. Before that, Sofia studied fine arts in Art School in Vladivostok and in Cambridge School Of Visual & Performing Arts, Cambridge, UK. Her works are in private collections in the United States and Russia. She is honored to have donated work to the 2015 National Academy Gala auction honoring National Academician, Eric Fischl, with a Lifetime Achievement Award, and to the 2016 Bailey House Auction. In September 2015, she had her first solo show in the Center of Contemporary Art Sol’ in Vladivostok, Russia.