Yulia Yunik

Year of birth: 1979.
Where do you live: I live in Ukraine, Kiev.
Your education: I’m a self-taught artist, which gives me the freedom to experiment and find my own path without traditional constraints.
Describe your art in three words: Depth, energy, transformation.
Your discipline: Abstract painting with epoxy resin and digital art.
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Your work is known for its bold use of color and layering techniques. Can you tell us how you approach choosing the color palette for each piece?  

Choosing colors is a very intuitive process for me. I usually start by focusing on the energy and mood I want to bring out in the piece. I love working with materials like epoxy resin and alcohol inks because they let me create rich layers and dynamic effects. Each color feels like a thread that weaves into the bigger picture, helping to set the tone and tell the story. I like to think of my colors as little bursts of energy that draw people in and make them feel something powerful.

Yulia Yunik | Celebration of Life | 2023

What emotions or experiences inspire the dynamic and vibrant compositions in your artwork?  

My paintings are a reflection of my personal journey and emotions. I’m deeply inspired by moments of transformation, overcoming challenges, and finding strength in unexpected places. Nature is a big influence, too. My studio is surrounded by beautiful rivers and forests, which bring a sense of calm and harmony into my work. And, of course, my Ukrainian heritage plays a huge role — it’s filled with rich traditions and deep cultural roots that I weave into my art.

Your project ‘The Spark of Color’ seems to explore the moment of creative ignition. Can you describe what this ‘spark’ means to you personally as an artist?  

For me, “The Spark of Color” is more than just a painting; it’s a visual expression of the energy that ignites dreams and ambitions. This piece symbolizes a powerful burst of emotions and creativity, created through a meditative process where I completely surrendered to the flow of inspiration. I abandoned all rules and limitations, letting the colors and textures guide me naturally. This experience was a true test of my own creative boundaries and an experiment in trusting the process without trying to control it.  

The result is a dynamic explosion of color and movement — much like fireworks lighting up the sky. The swirling patterns and vibrant hues represent the moment when ideas, emotions, and energy collide, sparking new beginnings and motivating action. I see “The Spark of Color” as an artwork that not only fills a space with vibrant energy but also serves as a reminder that each of us has the power to ignite our dreams and bring them to life. It’s a call to embrace spontaneity, trust in the creative process, and move forward with courage and enthusiasm.

Yulia Yunik | Love | 2023

Acrylic and epoxy resin are at the core of your materials. What draws you to these particular mediums, and how do they contribute to your artistic expression?  

I love using epoxy resin and acrylic because they offer so much flexibility and allow me to play with layers and transparency. Resin, in particular, creates this beautiful three-dimensional effect that makes my paintings feel alive. It lets me experiment and discover new textures and shapes. With each piece, I aim to keep a balance between structure and flow, making the painting feel spontaneous and full of life.

You’ve exhibited internationally. How has exposure to different cultures influenced your work?  

My biggest influence is definitely my home country, Ukraine. I’ve lived in Kyiv for over 20 years now, and it’s such a vibrant city where traditions from all over the country come together. I’m also very inspired by my childhood in Crimea — it’s a magical place with mountain rivers, the smell of steppe winds, and the taste of the salty sea. My paintings reflect the warmth of southern Ukraine’s traditions and the beautiful folklore of the western regions. The spirit of freedom and love for our land is deeply rooted in everything I create.  

My journey also took me to England, where I began living independently and truly found myself. I was lucky to grow up in such a rich cultural environment, and the British spirit definitely influenced me. Beyond that, I’m fascinated by many other places too. Asia and India have a special place in my heart — I love their philosophy of life and the deep spirituality I found there. Europe captivates me with its rich history and timeless elegance, while Latin America’s vibrant energy and joyful spirit have influenced my work with a sense of lightness and positivity. All these experiences have shaped my style and helped me create a unique blend of cultures in my work.

Yulia Yunik | Oysters | 2023

In your artist statement, you mention using art as a tool for emotional and spiritual reflection. Can you share a specific moment when you felt that your artwork had a profound impact on someone’s personal journey?  

Yes, one time a client told me that one of my paintings helped him through a really tough time. He saw it as a symbol of strength and resilience, reminding him to hold on to hope even when things seemed dark. Hearing that made me realize how powerful art can be. It’s more than just something beautiful to look at — it can really touch people’s hearts and become a source of comfort and encouragement. That’s the biggest compliment I could ever receive as an artist.

Yulia Yunik | Celebration of Life | 2023

Your works are described as a balance between structure and spontaneity. How do you find harmony between these two forces during your creative process?  

I start each piece with a basic structure in mind, but I let the details develop naturally. I usually meditate or do some breathing exercises before I begin, just to get in the right mindset and let my intuition lead the way. This way, I have a good mix of planning and freedom, which keeps the creative process exciting and open. I want my paintings to feel alive and full of movement, and balancing structure with spontaneity helps me achieve that.