Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoya Scholis.
Hi Zoya, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a Monterey and Bay Area painter, with a BA in Studio Arts. After teaching for 15 years, I became a full-time artist. Among my many influences are Richard Diebenkorn’s Ocean Park series, Joan Savo’s figurative work, Matisse’s textiles, and the drawings of Picasso.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My life is smoother now than it’s ever been, but what’s life without a mountain or two to climb? I’m still seeking a larger studio space and a big-name San Francisco gallery.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
For the last fifteen years or so I’ve focused on semi-realistic figures. Women with cats, women at the park, women reading, that sort of thing. And although I still love those paintings, I now find myself making darker, stranger work with masks and collage elements. I find them exciting and want to keep going. I’m calling this series, Más Que la Cara, which means “more than the face.”
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I’ve been told by more than one gallery owner that “Tech ruined the art scene” or words to that effect. Obviously, I hope that’s not true. We live in scary times. We need art now as much as ever. I believe it’s our salvation. I can’t speak for the “industry”; I intend to keep working.
Contact Info:
- Website: zoyart.com and https://nancydoddsgallery.com/zoya-scholis
- Instagram: zoyascholis
- Facebook: Nope
- LinkedIn: Nope
- Twitter: Nope
- Youtube: Nope
- Yelp: Nope
- Soundcloud: Nope
- Other: https://www.bryantstreet.com/artist/zoya-scholis/?portfolioCats=77
Image Credits
1st two photos by Kira Godbe.
