Darina Smolkina
Darina Smolkina is a Ukrainian artist specializing in surrealism and symbolism. Born in Ukraine and raised in Kyiv, Darina moved to Lisbon at the age of 19, soon after completing her education. Her early experiences as an immigrant in a new country deeply influenced her artistic journey.
In her paintings, Darina often depicts characters grappling with psychological challenges, whether imposed by society or self-inflicted. Themes of societal boundaries, norms, and rules are central to her art. At times, her work evokes the atmosphere of a theatrical performance, capturing the essence of actors in a single, poignant frame.
Group Exhibitions
“Echoes and Vision” Art Shield, The Old Sessions House, London, 2024
“New Dream World” 17frost Gallery, New York, 2023
“Goldnarben” Schönhausen Palace Museum (Ukrainian Cultural Community), Berlin, 2023
“New Dream World” Sapar Contemporary Gallery, New York, 2023
“Lagos Cultural Exhibition” Young Artist Prize (1st place), Lagos, 2022
“Alone in the Jungle” Avia, Guatemala City, 2021
“My First Diary” Prisma Estúdio, Lisbon, 2021
Fairs
“FOCUS” Carrousel du Louvre, Paris, 2022
Auctions
“Space Farm”, Lisbon, 2022
Decorating Projects
“Sparkle” Art Dinner Collaboration with Chef, 2022
Centá Сircus Party, stage decoration, 2024
Сentá&Sophistication, decoration for photography, 2024
Centá&Stelmy, decoration for photography, 2024
Lectures
“Gerador Conference” Lisbon, 2022
Education
Graphic Design, KNUTD collage, Kyiv, 2012-2016
Painting Art Courses, KMDA of Serge Lifar, Kyiv, 2003-2011