ARTIST INTERVIEW: Andzelika Bilyte.
Artist Andzelika Bilyte in Kaunas, Lithuania.
Les Couleurs Miami Beach recently conducted an interview with Andzelika Bilyte, a talented young painter hailing from Lithuania. The interview was led by Liudvikas Jakavicius, the editor of our "Trending in Lithuania" section, who had the pleasure of speaking with Andzelika about her art and creativity.
Andzelika Bilyte, born on July 7, 1995, has been cultivating her passion for creating unique abstract art since her teenage years. Les Couleurs Miami Beach Magazine had the privilege of conducting an interview with this young talented Lithuanian artist, who is based in Kaunas, Lithuania. During the interview, Andzelika shared insights into her artistic inspiration. Additionally, she generously donated one of her magnificent works for the "Les Couleurs Charity" Christmas Gala which was held in Vilnius, Lithuania in December of 2022.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Hello Andzelika, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. To begin, could you please share with our readers where you were born and raised?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: Certainly! I was actually born in small and charming township near Radviliskis district municipality in Siauliai County, Lithuania.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: How, if at all, has your hometown and its surroundings influenced your artwork?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: Absolutely. As someone who also has a deep appreciation for abstract art, I've found that my hometown and the surrounding natural landscapes have had a profound influence on my work. Growing up in Radviliskis, I spent a lot of time immersed in nature, observing the patterns, colors, and textures that make up our environment. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped my artistic vision and continue to inspire me to this day.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Thank you for mentioning how nature has influenced your artwork, Andzelika. I'd love to hear more about where you draw inspiration from. In addition to nature, are there any other sources of inspiration that you often turn to when creating your art?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: I believe that inspiration can be found in all aspects of life, including movies, songs, theater, exhibitions, etc. However, allowing that inspiration to manifest can be a challenge. Personally, I prefer to be in a positive and clear mental state before creating art. When I'm feeling down, I find it difficult to paint. Therefore, it's crucial for me to clear my mind before starting a painting.
As an artist, I view my work as a representation of myself and my emotions. When I sell a painting, I'm not just selling a canvas; I'm selling a part of my art and my soul. That's why it's essential for me to be happy and at peace when I'm painting. In this way, I can transmit positive energy to my audience and share my joy through my art.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Who would you say are your biggest artistic influences or favorite artists?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: There are actually many artists that I admire and draw inspiration from, so it's difficult to pinpoint just one. However, if I had to name someone in particular, I would say that Skaiste Semenike is an artist whose work I deeply admire. I find her use of color and texture to be particularly compelling, and the way she creates abstract compositions that evoke her emotions and sensations is truly inspiring to me. Overall, though, I'm constantly discovering new artists and artistic styles that inspire and challenge me, so my influences are constantly evolving.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Did you attend an art school or receive any formal training in art? If so, could you tell us a bit about where have you studied and what your experience was like?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: Yes, I actually attended an art school for my high school education. After finishing my main lessons at school for the day, I would typically spend the afternoons and evenings focused on developing my skills in the arts. I have many fond memories of this time, and I believe that it laid a strong foundation for my future artistic pursuits. Although I ultimately chose a different path for my university studies, I never stopped painting and exploring different artistic techniques. Art has remained a constant passion in my life, and I continue to learn and grow as an artist every day.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: When have you done your first painting?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: When I went to the art school, although the exact date escapes me at the moment.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: How did you discover your passion for art? When did you realize that you truly love art?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: It's actually a somewhat sad story. In 2019, I was going through some difficult times and was searching for ways to relax and distract myself from my thoughts. I tried going to the gym and walking in the forest, but nothing really helped. That's when I started painting again and realized that it was the best way for me to feel relaxed and happy. From those hard times, something good emerged.
For me, painting is really therapeutic. Just looking at my paintings makes me feel more at peace. I think that art can be a form of therapy that is even better than seeing a psychologist. I'm not saying that therapy is bad, but for me, painting is just really helpful.
I first started drawing when I was in art school, but that was a long time ago. I stopped for a while and only started painting again in 2019. So now it's been four years since I picked up the paintbrush again.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: What is your happiest moment in in arts?
ANDZELIKA BILYTE: I don't want to sound strange, but I find the happiest moment in my art when I see the satisfaction of my customers. When I sell a painting, I always enjoy meeting the person who is buying it. Witnessing their first reaction and seeing the smile on their face brings me immense joy. It's a great feeling to know that my art has touched someone and made them happy.
LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Thank you for taking the time to speak with me, and I'd also like to express my gratitude for the donation you made to the Les Couleurs Charity.
