Every artist’s way of looking at the world is intriguing, and Diana Davydova certainly doesn’t disappoint in that regard. I think it’s safe to say that she always puts a fresh twist on florals by only painting their most unique characteristics—you won’t find any “typical” florals here today.
Diana was born in Russia, but currently lives in England. She graduated as a teacher of visual arts from the Moscow Regional University and earned a degree in Fine Art Practices from Plymouth College of Art.
After teaching for a short time, Diana made an interesting career move that made a long term impact on her art. She began working in her family’s florist business in Moscow, while concurrently pursuing her love of flowers by studying floral design at the Swiss Floral Design School.
The results, of course, speak for themselves. Diana felt that traditional floral arrangements were beautiful works of art, yet wanted to extend that beyond their naturally limited lifespan. With each of her vibrant paintings, she is able to create arrangements that will last hundreds of years.
The story doesn’t end there, however. Diane soon began to merge traditional painting methods with some contemporary influences, in order to reveal a more abstract interpretation of her realistic subjects.
Today, her floral paintings are always meant to be viewed as a symbol of something else, an abstract feeling or idea, not just as the original object.
Reading Diana’s blog gives quite a bit of insight into her creative process. For example, she explains how she developed the third and final painting, below.
It was after a visit to Kew Gardens that she became fascinated with Sundew plants. The plant’s sweet dew, used to capture insects, reminded her of the seductively sweet words and actions that some women use to attract men for their own devices.
Unable to find a proper model, Diana used pins and cherry jam to create her own “plant” from which to paint. The result is a visual treat, that draws the viewer in as surely as a bee to honey.
I invite you to visit more of Diana’s gorgeous floral abstractions as she continues to explore the world through her own unique perspective.
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