Volha Druhakova

My work is inspired by remote places and the concept of escape, whether real or imaginary. This could involve journeying into the wilderness, contemplating a flower, or delving into the realm of abstraction. The initial idea always revolves around transcending the reality of the subject – not too much, but just enough to envision the possibility of something otherworldly. I strive to convey an expression that captures the interplay of light and shadow, evoking a sense of movement and following the form.
A lot of my work is focused on mountains, particularly the Highlands of Scotland. These sculptural and flowing landscapes of immense age, a frozen movement of the Earth itself, solid but also very fluid and changing with the seasons, weather, and particularly light, give me endless inspiration. My process involves walking far into that landscape, often on multiday trips, collecting images and sketches on location, and finalizing the work in the studio.
In printmaking, I gravitate towards bold lines, high contrast, and a stylized form of expression. I work mostly using relief techniques (linocut and woodcut), but I particularly enjoy the process of making monotype/mixed media pieces, seeking spontaneity and unexpected results. Regardless of the chosen medium and mode of expression, I aim to allow the image to evolve organically, often leading to outcomes that differ from my initial intentions.
In this ever-evolving journey of artistic exploration, I am guided by the captivating allure of the unknown and the limitless possibilities it holds.