Melodramatic Whimsy

by Georgy Kurasov Art

Being an artist you will always get the question, “What does your art mean?” I’ve always struggled with an answer because at face value i really just enjoy drawing pretty ladies but, when i actually took some time to consider why i draw the things i draw, the phrase that came to mind is “Melodramatic Whimsy”.

What does this mean? Specifically, how do i relate it to my art and my motivations behind what i create. To deconstruct the phrase, melodramatic meaning an intense, exaggerated feeling that is almost theatrical in its expression. Whimsy meaning a light, surreal charm, with child like imagination. When you combine the two I imagine it’s like your emotions playing dress up. Its a stylized emotional overload that doesn’t take itself too seriously. That is how I would describe my relationship to my art.

I use my work as vehicle to channel my mood and my art style is a very stylized portraiture. This helps me to connect with emotions, visualize them, and alchemize into a beautiful piece of work. Essentially, using my art as means to tap into my inner child and stay connected with that youthful, creative, part of myself.

My work isn’t mystery laden, its not something you even have to read into that deeply, I want the viewer to be able to look at the work with a detached empathy. Ultimately, to appreciate the feeling that the work evoked and the technical skill that went into making it.

Not saying this is applicable to all of my pieces but the majority are simply pretty portraits i felt compelled to make because i love making things. I appreciate the artists from the Aesthetic Movement because sometimes its really just is about making art for arts sake. To create because it feels good to do so, not because your trying to make a big statement. Of course, there is a balance to strike between aesthetics and meaning. I just feel at this point in my artistic journey i lean toward the aesthetic appeal of art versus the storytelling aspect.

I felt compelled to write this blog post because my art doesn’t tell a story, its a fun house mirror and I’m tired of crafting B.S. stories for people to understand that. So if you’re someone who enjoys an explanation for why my art looks the way it does. This is your answer. I’ve been making art purely for the love of the game for my entire artistic journey(over a decade). No accolades, No large lump sums of money, no sponsors. Just me doing the thing i love because i love it. That’s what it will always be and if i reach critical acclaim it will be because my work is beautifully evocative no words necessary. I want to create ineffable works in my lifetime.