Check out Annika Banko’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Annika Banko.

Annika, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
My story has always been “art”. What I try to portray most in my work is my personal journey of surviving and thriving. I discovered abstract painting after escaping many years of domestic abuse and isolation. The expression and freedom of the abstract process was extremely healing for me. After so much pain and silence, I finally found a
way to speak again, using gestures, marks, and colors. In a world where I am as powerful as I am helpless, I could paint my reality turning that torment into something beautiful.

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I create large abstract paintings in acrylic and oil pastel. Working on large canvases brings a physicality to my process where I’m able to exert the motion of my entire body to generate bold strokes and gestures. I use strong contrasting color palettes that express my feeling and mood. I work to capture the emotional connection relating to certain life experiences. My work was instrumental in reclaiming my power as an individual, woman, and mother. Our feminine essence is to love, nurture and endure. I want my work to serve as reminder that we also possess in us the power to overcome, embrace and thrive.

 Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
I definitely have a few things that I’ve learned along my artistic journey. Pursuing your art full-time comes with risks and requires commitment and sacrifice. It’s not just about making art but being resourceful and creative in building your art into a business. 

Life as an artist can be as glamorous as it can be pathetic. Live within your means and be willing to do whatever it takes; take commissions, paint houses, paint faces,  network, schmooze with clients.  Be professional about everything: how you speak, dress, and manage your marketing and media. Clients will choose you because you are not only talented, but reliable and just plain awesome to work with. Until your art really takes flight you have to be the face of your business and get things done. 

Be creative in and out of the studio. Don’t become complacent with only sharing your work online. Get resourceful and find ways to get your art off the screen, out of your studio and into the real world. 

One of the most important things I’ve learned over the years is to make sure that everyone around you is supportive of you and your work. There is no time to waste on toxic people who drain you energetically, creatively or financially. 

And last but not least; You have to believe in yourself,  believe in your work and believe in your ability to manifest whatever you need to make it happen. It is okay to give up on people, but never give up on yourself. Live true to your destiny, see the value in your experiences and do whatever it takes to find fulfillment.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
I am most active on my Instagram page @annikabanko, or you can visit my website annikabankart.com.

I have my work displayed in several listed luxury homes throughout Los Angeles and also book studio visits by appointment.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.annikabankoart.com
• Email: annikabankoart@gmail.com
• Instagram: @annikabanko

Image Credit:
Cadence Feeley Instagram @cadencia

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