Local artist Irina Pushkareva is changing the way we view the landscape of SW Florida with her intricate paintings of the natural world. Through her art, she hopes to drive greater awareness that conserving animals and the natural environment is a foundation for a stable and healthy human society.
As an artist who focuses her attention on capturing the beauty of the natural world, Irina Pushkavera wanted to do her part to save it. Her latest collection of paintings showcases SW Florida’s diverse wildlife, with a portion of every print sold going to support the efforts of the Florida Wildlife Federation.
“This project is important to me because I see how fast the state of Florida is being developed, and how negatively this development impacts Florida’s nature and its wild species. People seem to underestimate the importance of nature in our modern society. Today, people struggle a lot with anxiety, chronic stress, depressive moods and even depression. But it was proven that watching animals in the wild brings joy, peace and harmony to one’s mind,” Pushkareva explained.
This project also serves as a reminder that our environment, its animals and humankind are all tied together.
“The reason I chose to paint wild animals thriving in their natural surroundings, is because I wish to bring the feelings of joy, serenity and harmony to people through my art. People often act on emotions, on whatever feels good in the moment. When we do that, we create chaos in our lives, in other people’s lives, and in our surroundings as well. Only when we are calm and peaceful, our rational thinking turns on. Our emotions no longer direct how we act. Instead, we decide what is more rational and effective to do at the moment,” Pushkareva said. “It is important to protect and serve the natural environment we live in, because we can’t flourish as a society without it. But, nature can flourish without us. The more we connect to nature, the more we connect with our true selves.”
Irina’s mission as an artist is to empower others through her art and bring a feeling of serenity and joy.
