Art as a Mirror: Revealing Femininity and the Self

Olena Morozova, a visual artist based in Kyiv, Ukraine, sees feminism not as a battle with the world, but as a personal journey toward self-discovery, where femininity unfolds through both strength and vulnerability. Since 2015, she has been capturing the complexities of spirituality, sexuality, gender identity, and family relationships through her photography. Her work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions at major venues such as the Southern Utah Museum of Art, Walker Art Gallery, and the Finnish Museum of Photography. Furthermore, Olena is a member of several prominent photography organizations, including the Ukrainian Women Photography Organization and FUTURES Photography.

How do you navigate complex themes such as spirituality in a way that connects with your audience?

I try to talk about spirituality through personal stories, symbolism, and visual images that resonate with the viewer. This allows me to translate complex abstract concepts into concrete experiences. For example, details such as light, color, textures, elements of nature, and special props are important in my work to help create an immersive experience.

How do you think art can contribute to discussions about femininity and vulnerability in our society?

Art can be a mirror that helps society to see aspects of femininity and vulnerability that are often overlooked. It creates a space for dialogue and allows us to see that these qualities are not weaknesses but sources of strength. For example, through portraits, self-portraits, and visual narratives, I explore both my experiences and those of my heroines, their struggles and strengths, revealing themes that remain relevant to many. I believe art has the power to break stereotypes and help us understand each other better.

How does your definition of feminism shape your artistic practice and the themes you explore?

For me, feminism is about equality of opportunity and respect for individuality. This definition influences my choice of topics such as gender identity, stereotypes, and personal boundaries. I endeavor to give a voice to those whose stories often go unnoticed, to explore the depth of the human experience, and to show the diversity of fates. Feminism teaches me to view the world with empathy and to seek balance, which is reflected in my work

How do you overcome creative blocks when they arise?

When I encounter a block, I allow myself to pause to reboot. A change of activity helps me: walking, reading, music, yoga. I also return to my old projects or experiment with new techniques.

Inspiration can come from anywhere, the main thing is not to push yourself and give the process time.

Which Ukrainian artists inspire you, and why?

I am inspired by artists such as Maria Primachenko for her amazing symbolism and connection to popular culture, as well as Oleg Golosiy and Oleksandr Roitburd who stimulate the imagination with their work. I also find inspiration in contemporary Ukrainian photographers who rethink our past and present. These are mainly representatives of the MYPH school of conceptual and art photography, Sergiy Melnichenko, Olia Koval, Veronika Mol, and others.

Olena currently exhibits in follow.art’s online exhibition ‘Good Girl!’, a project focused on exploring femininity through the female gaze. The exhibition will be available on the follow.art platform until January 27th, 2025.