Yulia Filyushchenko

You returned to painting during the pandemic in 2020. What brought you back to art at that particular moment?

The pandemic period was difficult for everyone. I felt a great deal of anxiety about the health of my family and my parents. Through painting, I was able not only to distract myself, but also to devote more time to myself.

Why did watercolor become the medium that captivated you after your earlier experience with oil painting?

As a very active person, I needed a medium that could give me a faster result. That is why watercolor captivated me — especially the possibility of creating a work within a short period of time.

Yulia Filyushchenko | Istanbul | 2026

You do not have a formal art education. How has this shaped your artistic path and your way of learning?

At the beginning, the absence of fear helped me a lot. I was not afraid that something might not work out. I painted every day on my own, and at that time it seemed to me that my works were wonderful. I keep all my works and never tear them up or throw them away, so that later I can compare the results and see the experience I have gained.

Now I look at my first works and smile. With experience came the fear of a blank sheet, and the fear that a work might not turn out well. There is now a lot of self-criticism in every piece. If a work is within my reach, I always have the desire to correct it.

Yulia Filyushchenko | Istanbul | 2026

Your works often focus on urban landscapes. What attracts you most to the atmosphere of a city?

Everything depends on my mood, inspiration, or the place where I am. In the urban atmosphere, I am especially attracted to light and shadow — the search for a certain mystery.

The Istanbul series has a strong sense of light, architecture, and movement. What was your personal impression of Istanbul as an artistic subject?

Istanbul is a city of colors. I was there for the first time, and the air and wind of the Bosphorus made an unforgettable impression on me. After the trip, I created a series of 20 monochrome works featuring the places in Istanbul that inspired me the most.

Yulia Filyushchenko | Istanbul Square | 2026

Watercolor is often associated with spontaneity and unpredictability. How do you balance control and freedom in your technique?

It is precisely the spontaneity and unpredictability of watercolor that fascinates me. I love the possibility of guiding the paint on the paper and allowing myself to do whatever I feel like doing. Even an unsuccessful work can be turned into a sketch by using a black pen. And it is also important to remember the principle that perfection is the enemy of the good.

Yulia Filyushchenko | Istanbul Tower | 2026

You have studied with various watercolor artists and schools. Which lessons or approaches have influenced your practice the most?

I am still studying at Anastasia Kustova’s school. I consider her the best teacher and watercolor artist. Every course, lecture, plein air session — everything she gives — is filled with energy and love for her work. With Anastasia, I reached a new and higher level: independent practice and a deeper understanding of everything connected with watercolor.