Victoria Kolozian: An Artist's Journey of Resilience, Hope, and Culture

Childhood Inspiration to Lifelong Passion

"When I was very little, my grandfather would sit me down at his huge desk in his den, give me a squared sheet and tell me to draw his white mug with red polka dots while telling me fairytales," Victoria Kolozian reflects. "Of course, I would laugh and protest, saying that it was so easy, but he would say that I had to pay attention to proportions and shadows to get it right." This simple yet profound practice shaped her earliest artistic impressions, infusing her childhood with creativity and discipline. It was never forced, but always encouraged, with gifts of pencils, sketchpads, and paints on every special occasion. Slowly but surely, art became part of her essence, seamlessly integrating into her life.

A Life-Changing Move to Lebanon  

Victoria pinpoints her move to Lebanon in 2016 as a pivotal moment that redefined her creative path. "I was mesmerised by its beauty and felt compelled to capture it in a tangible form beyond photographs," she explains. The country's striking landscapes, from its snow-capped mountains to sun-drenched beaches, offered her a new canvas overflowing with inspiration. Immersing herself in Lebanon's culture allowed her to translate these impressions into artwork that resonated with both personal and collective stories.

Ukrainian (2024) by Victoria Kolozian

An Artistic Style Bridged by Traditions  

At the heart of Victoria's artistic identity is her fusion of Ukrainian heritage and Lebanese experiences. She began her career painting in the Ukrainian Petrykivka style, which uses bold floral motifs created with single brushstrokes, often accompanied by intricate dots. Enthralled by its symmetry and meticulous detail, she was inspired by artists such as Oleksandr Opariy, who famously adapted this traditional art form into modern designs.

Over time, Victoria integrated pointillism into her repertoire, finding a harmony between precision and creativity. "I started to paint exclusively in a pointillist technique, admiring the order and its effect on the final result." This intricate method, where thousands of distinct dots form patterns, adds a rich, three-dimensional texture to her work, inviting viewers to step closer and lose themselves in every detail.

Art as Emotion and Reflection  

For Victoria, every piece she creates is deeply tied to her emotions and environment. "My paintings are always connected with my emotions and the events happening around me," she says. Her process begins with an emotional connection to a scene or moment, inspired by landscapes or the socio-political atmospheres of her dual homelands, Ukraine and Lebanon. Layering tiny dots of metallic tones on black canvases, she creates luminous compositions that seem to glow from within. 

However, even the most inspired artists encounter creative blocks. Victoria overcomes these by reconnecting with nature. "I take a day to immerse myself in nature—hiking in the mountains or paddleboarding on the sea," she says. It’s in these moments of solitude that she recharges, rediscovering herself and the heart of her art.

Li Beirut (2024) by Victoria Kolozian

Resilience and Hope in Every Stroke  

Themes of resilience and hope are woven throughout Victoria's oeuvre. She believes that "most changes are within our control," a sentiment that fuels her artistic narrative. Her works often aim to inspire perseverance and empowerment, pushing viewers to reflect on their capacity for growth and positivity, even in the face of challenges. 

One standout piece, 'Li Beirut,' painted amidst the turbulence of October 2024, embodies this ethos. The artwork depicts a girl paddleboarding across the calm turquoise sea with disaster unfolding behind her. "It was a celebration of peace, hope, and a reflection of how little we truly need to be happy," Victoria shares. The piece reminds viewers of humanity's fragility and strength, sparking emotions that go beyond aesthetics.

Art’s Role in Society  

"Art plays a vital role in uniting people," Victoria observes. To her, it’s more than a form of personal expression; it’s a force for education, empathy, and societal progress. Art has the power to provoke thought and ignite conversations about significant political and social issues, leaving lasting impressions on both individuals and communities. 

Looking Ahead  

Victoria’s vision for her future is filled with ambition and purpose. She is currently building relationships with international galleries, excited by the opportunities to share her work and engage with a global audience. She envisions solo exhibitions in Beirut and collaborative showcases in the Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Beyond her personal artistic pursuits, she dreams of nurturing the next generation of talent through an art school she plans to open in Lebanon.

Her advice to aspiring artists is steeped in reflection and authenticity. "Stay true to your emotions and experiences, as they are the heart of your art. Experiment with different techniques and materials, embrace your unique perspective, and trust the process. Also, listen to yourself more and spend less time on social media; it can kill your inspiration."

Discover More  

Victoria Kolozian’s art serves as a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and cross-cultural influence. Through her striking compositions, she invites us to witness the beauty, fragility, and strength of life. Explore her portfolio today on ArtRewards to experience the stories her work has to tell, and to feel the hope her art inspires.