Alina Melnikova

Alina Melnikova has finished her MA-level painting studies at Vilnius Academy of Arts in 2008. The artist had actively contributed to Lithuanian art scene since 2004.

She arranged few solo exhibitions in Lithuania and Austria, as well she participated in various group shows in Spain, Finland, Poland, Austria, Estonia and Lithuania. Alina Melnikova was awarded at “Young painters prize ’09” (III place), also the artist received “Sleipnir” scholarship of Nordic Council of Ministers (twice in 2008 and 2007).

A. Melnikova‘s paintings are light, transparent, monochrome colorite. At first glance they seem rather calm and not seeking for attention. But geting a little bit closer they reveal chaotic, intensive world full of strange forms and shapes. Such a painting style is chosen by the artist very consciously and has a tight connection with themes explored.

The artist is interested in the formation of identity and problems of visual pleasure. Taking herself as an object for exploration and development of ideas she manages to reclaim her personal experiences and speak about universal issues often considering social questions connected with construction of identity.

A. Melnikova proficiently combining bold honesty and irony fixates her changing identity in a relationship with other social bodies. She pays attention to gender identity as a main axis for defining yourself. In some paintings the artist explores this idea by playing with stereotypes commonly attached to women: faddiness, extreme emotionality and overbearing irrationality. In other paintings is almost impossible to define the subject by clear notions on gender identity and categories of manliness or femininity.

A. Melnikova avoids strong definitions and prefers to leave a room for confusion. Her paintings work like references inviting to think beyond the framework.