Elena Done

CONTEMPORARY ARTIST,
Сost-del-Sol, Spain
"WHEN SUMMER BECOMES A HOME"
In my artistic research I explore the theme of migration and adaptation to a new reality. I am manifesting the courage to change, to jump into the unknown, to study cultural adjustment curve and I inspire to aspire. I paint from personal experiences in ever-shifting environments and unpredictable social encounters, and question the meaning of being a 'foreigner'.

ABSTRACT ART (2024)

My work is rooted in the tension between abstraction and figuration, where the boundaries between form and formlessness blur, inviting the viewer into an intense, often chaotic visual experience. My brushstrokes are deliberate yet spontaneous, capturing the raw energy of human existence, sexuality, and mortality, often drawing on art history, from the Masters of Russian avant-garde to Abstract Expressionism, as I reinterpret those traditions through a modern lens.
Figures emerge and retreat within layers of color and texture, hinting at stories that remain just out of reach. This push and pull between revelation and concealment speaks to the way we experience the world — fragmented, elusive, and intensely alive.
Through my paintings, I hope to invite viewers into a dynamic and immersive visual experience that reflects the complexity of being.
My liquid lines keep moving and adapting, refusing to be still, so that every ending is also a beginning.I
In my studio

BODY&SPACES (2024)

In these series I explore the interplay between the Individual and the physical Environment, the Figure and the Background, between Tangible and Etherial. The Figure is represented by the Vase , each with unique and elaborated ornament, but the landscapes are abstract, boundless, and conceptual, associated with a sense of freedom and infinite extension. This focuses on the concept of the borders and the structures between body, mind, and soul, the human identity and the sky, the sea, the space, and the ground. And you can see that the figure is now much more integrated, though keeping its unique ornament, unique identity. The impressionistic backdrop sings with warm hues, inviting viewers to ponder connections between body and space.

Vases with Resources (2023)

My series, "Vases with Resources" (2023), tackles the questions of relocation: "How do I fit in? How can I contribute?" Each individual, a synthesis of vast experiences and resources accumulated throughout life, is portrayed as a unique vase. Utilizing the hypnosis technique of creating a source of vital resources, the visual symbol becomes a one-of-a-kind vase with an intricate surface ornament. These vases become powerful anchors for positive moments, offering emotional nourishment when needed. Through this, I aim to reveal the complexities of adapting to a new environment behind the seemingly carefree life abroad.

Exploring Culture Code ( 2019-2023)

And the stage of tourism is full of curiosity and charm of the new culture, new emblematic images, new environment. This is when I absorb the culture code of rich artistic heritage of Andalusia, which is a synthesis of Iberic, Phoenician, Tartessos, Roman, Vandal, Visigoth, Arabic and Spanish roots, researching its tradition. This curiosity is presented in the series “Spanish escapes” ( 2019-2020) - Meninas, Silhouettes of Flamenco dancers, Moroccan pottery, Andalusian horses and flamingos on the beach.


Shall I take my Gods with me?
Re-location is an opportunity to move on, but Nostalgia and homesickness become an objective reality. It is always associated with loss of place, loss of time, inevitable loss of the past. Reflection on your previous believes.
This theme is presented in the series of artworks “The wings will bring you home”. Here I return   to my past Art nouveau/Art modern influences full of fairy-tale imaginary and mythological subjects.

Journey to Paradise ( 2021)

Embarking on the initial stage of relocation, commonly termed the "Honeymoon" phase, I capture the enchantment of new circumstances—the allure of a different climate, a novel environment. The emotions evoked during this period range from euphoria and excitement to curiosity, exaltation, and delight. Everything feels new, exciting, and refreshingly different.
In my series "Paraiso. Dream" (2021), born from the fascination with this new environment, I articulate my artistic purpose. Reflecting on the privilege of living in a paradise bubble surrounded by tropical beauty, manicured gardens, rare birds, and the vivid colors of the sea and sky, I contemplate the notion of a personal paradise.
I have found myself relating with the term “Paradise”, from an idealist’s representation of “Paradise” to an everyday perception of smaller “paradises” of my heroes and their dreams.

BIO

Elena Done, born in Moscow in 1973, commenced her artistic journey at 12 in the state art school, influenced by Russian Avant-garde masters and Shchukine's impressionistic collection. While studying Psychology at Moscow State University, she delved into hypnotherapy and psychosynthesis, alongside a profound interest in the history of mysticism.
In 2019, she obtained academic art education at Moscow State Academic Art Institute and joined the Union of Artists of Moscow.
Relocating to Spanish Costa-del-Sol in the same year marked a pivotal moment. This transition from Eastern to Western Europe, from North to South, from bustling metropolis to a tranquil village triggered a profound transformation in her artistic identity and language. Immersed in a multinational expat community, she expanded her visual vocabulary, experimented with contemporary art, and absorbed Andalusia's rich artistic heritage.
Done's artistic approach, often featuring figures with abstract and decorative techniques, reflects her academic background, fascination with Andalusian history, and exploration of contemporary metamodernist tendencies. In 2023, she became a member of the Association of Visual Artists of Malaga (APLAMA).


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Pick up in my studio in Marbella, Malaga, Spain
Free
Please, contact me via elenadoneart@gmail.com and we will get accord with the date
Delivery within Spain
approximately 200-250 euro ( depending on size and weight )
Expect your artwork to arrive with plenty of support packaged in to make its journey as safe as possible as it travels from the artist’s studio to your home in a well protected cardboard box
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Ships in a cardboard box
Arwork will ship flat in a sturdy, well-protected cardboard box at very high standards. Expect your artwork to arrive with plenty of support packaged in to make its journey as safe as possible as it travels from the artist’s studio to your home.
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E-mail: elenadoneart@gmail.com
Estepona, Malaga, Spain
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