Occasionally we might find a treasure when not even expecting it. This could be on a walk along the road, at a new store stacked with foreign and unfamiliar objects, or even right in the comforts of our usual haunts. Chancing upon the refined hand present in Ewelina (pronounced Evalina) Ferruso’s work is just such an experience for the appreciator of art, whether newly introduced or thoroughly versed. Perhaps it is the wisps of Ahisma woven into the oil soaked narratives, yet it could also be as simple as enjoying the quality of a well-meditated visual journey. Join us now as Nathan Spoor catches up with new talent Ewelina Ferruso just long enough to ask the NY artist a few questions regarding her captivating works of karmic consequence.
Please tell us a little about yourself Ewelina. Where did you grow up, and what was life like as a child? Were you especially creative early on, or did your art gene kick in at some later date?
I was born In Wroclaw, Poland. At the age of 3, my family immigrated to the U.S.A. I grew up In Mahwah NJ. I spent most of my time with the trees, plants and soils. Among them, we communicated with great harmony and they planted within me a great seed of creativity. I began to draw on paper as early as my memory goes and I knew that I could best express myself there, with art.
What do you find is the most interesting subject matter for your work, and what inspires you the most?
Spirituality. Evolution. Energy. Change. Change is the only constant. So, I search myself and try to discover where I am within these Ideas. Often times, this sparks some elaborate Imagery or quest that allows for expansion.
Do you find that your work begins with a narrative or finds one along the way, if at all?
Usually, I begin with one larger scale vision, something that came to me in meditation or dream sequences. Then, I branch off of that painting into others. It seems to be the case, that although I may begin with a specific Idea, the work takes on a journey of It’s own and I become the tool. Being a tool IS quite Interesting really. Later, my paintings reveal to me a truth and often times, predict the future, not only about the direction of my work, but about the state of my soul.
What do you feel is the most important aspect of your creative process?
That aspect morphs quite a lot. Right now, the most Important aspect is allowing myself the time to play in my sketchbook and environments. With such a rigorous schedule, we artists need time to play and be inspired.
When you’re not at the easel or in the studio, what do you fill your time with?
Astanga Yoga. Raw cacao. Meditation. Reading. Nature. Adventure, and a good cup of tea.
As a fairly new artist to this burgeoning art scene, where do you find your voice making its’ stand?
My voice makes it’s stand at gallery openings, especially solo shows and in the secret places no one else ever sees.
Tell us a little about your latest group of works and what a newcomer might be interested in knowing when happening upon them.
At Last Rites Gallery NYC, I am showing a series of darker works called, “The Unspoken”. The series explores an emotional upheaval. Perhaps we sometimes believe spiritual expansion doesn’t involve a serious exploration of our own “darksides”, our fears, or our pain. But, if these were never explored, than our spirituality would be rooted In Illusion. We are part light and we are part dark too. The painting, “Goddess”, which I consider the final painting of the collection, speaks about standing up, taking action, living “spirituality with Intention” and having a greater vision for ones life.
What does the future of your work and your life hold in store?
Great change. Great work. Great fun.
Do you have any thoughts to pass on to new artists or anyone in the arts as we part company for the time being?
Be the change you wish to see. Make life, art.
