ARTIST INTERVIEW: Greta Skya

Les Couleurs Miami Beach Interviews Greta Skya: From Trakai to London – The Artistic Journey of Painter Greta Skya. Greta's artistic odyssey began in the quaint Lithuanian town of Trakai. A self-taught prodigy, she nurtured an unwavering passion for art from her early years, drawing inspiration from her father's skilled brushstrokes. Relocating to London at 19, she delved into performing arts while keeping her artistic flame alive. Today, she paints her narratives using oil on canvas and linocut printmaking, carving a unique path through the world of portraits and human anatomy. As an emerging artist, Greta Skya's distinctive style continues to evolve, capturing the essence of her journey from Trakai to the heart of artistic expression.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Hello Greta. Thank you for taking the time to agree to this interview. First and foremost, I'd like to ask where you're originally from.

GRETA SKYA: I hail from a charming, albeit diminutive, town in Lithuania named Trakai. It might be small, but it fills me with immense pride. Every time I return, it feels like coming home.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Are you solely dedicated to painting or do you engage in other forms of work?

GRETA SKYA: Currently, I'm engrossed in the world of painting and printmaking. I create oil paintings and delve into linocut printmaking as well. Art is my sole occupation at present.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: When did you complete your first painting?

GRETA SKYA: My first fully realized painting was during my school days. My passion for the arts was evident even then. Encouraged by my teacher, I frequently participated in art competitions and submitted my work. However, my journey as a professional artist began around the early 2000s when I produced a large-scale portrait of Frank Kafka.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Which artistic styles influence your work typically?

GRETA SKYA: I believe my work is a fusion of various styles. Rather than subscribing to a single approach, I draw inspiration from a myriad of sources. Elements of pop art are discernible, and I'm particularly drawn to realism. I strive to intertwine these influences, occasionally diving deeply into realism, while also embracing contemporary and modern art. It is like a mix.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Speaking about pop art, what's your perspective on it? Some scholars dismiss it as art. How do you perceive it?

GRETA SKYA: Each artist embarks on their own unique journey. Historically, new forms of art often faced skepticism. For instance, Van Gogh's work was met with perplexity and even disdain. Yet, these unconventional creations stand the test of time. So, to those who question pop art's authenticity, I'd say give it a try. Pop art is multi-faceted and intricate. I disagree with detractors and hold it in high regard. It's invigorating and holds immense value.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Who are your primary artistic influences, both from Lithuania and beyond its borders?

GRETA SKYA: In Lithuania, I have recently come across the artwork of Robert Bluj. While his work isn't new, he's a newfound discovery for me. His nude paintings have a captivating effect on me, highlighting his remarkable skills. Additionally, I hold a strong appreciation for the works of Algimantas Krisciunas. In a wider artistic context, my admiration extends to renowned figures like Frida Kahlo, as well as iconic artists such as Picasso and Salvador Dalí.

Art represents a realm of perpetual exploration, and I've also had the privilege of encountering fresh inspiration from artists based in London, like Al Slater and Michael Carson. Their exhibitions resonate deeply with me, adding new layers to my artistic journey.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Did you attend an art academy in Lithuania?

GRETA SKYA: I'm largely self-taught as an artist. My upbringing was immersed in creativity due to my father, who, though not a professional artist, frequently painted at home. This early exposure kindled my passion. I engaged in sporadic life drawing and gained an affinity for anatomy and nudes, but art remained a secondary pursuit. Interestingly, I hold a degree in Drama Theater and, technically, I am an actress, even though I've pursued painting professionally. I graduated from Acting at University of West London.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: How and where do you discover the wellspring of inspiration for your artworks?

GRETA SKYA: Nature's fauna and elements play a significant role in kindling my inspiration. Moreover, my father's artistic endeavors during my upbringing have deeply influenced me. His creative pursuits ignited a fire within me that continues to fuel my artistic journey.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: How long did it take you to develop your distinctive artistic style?

GRETA SKYA: The journey to forge a unique style is a time-intensive one. Some grasp it swiftly, while for others, it's a lengthier process. For me, the turning point arrived during the pandemic, around 2020-2023, when I began merging portraiture with contemporary elements. It took approximately 2-3 years to crystallize my current style.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Could you pinpoint a particularly joyful moment in your artistic career?

GRETA SKYA: The pinnacle of joy as an artist, for me, is when I receive feedback. Not in a conceited manner, but when people express their thoughts. It's invigorating to receive gratitude or witness images of my artwork adorning someone's home. The feeling that my creations can have an impact and that I'm fulfilling my true purpose engenders the utmost happiness.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: What do you appreciate most about your artistic creations?

GRETA SKYA: Determining what I appreciate most is a formidable task. However, I'd say it's the harmonious fusion of two worlds: humanity and nature. My work endeavors to meld them into a seamless blend. This message, this purpose, is what I cherish. Placing a fish head on a human figure or integrating bird imagery, I aim to emphasize harmony. Witnessing people grasp this intention brings me profound contentment, as it signifies that I've accomplished my objective.

LIUDVIKAS JAKAVICIUS: Thank you, Greta, for your time in granting this interview.