Rica's artistic journey unfolded organically, driven by serendipitous connections that have shaped her distinctive style. Thriving without a fixed routine, she allows ideas to flow naturally, fostering a dynamic and evolving creative process.
In the ever-evolving art world, Rica remains steadfast in her dedication to her personal craftsmanship, steering clear of external influences. Her approach to art goes beyond personal fulfillment; it extends to the joy her artwork brings to those fortunate enough to experience it firsthand.
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a professional artist?
Even as a child, I loved to paint, do handicrafts and design. At the age of 15 I started to deal with photography. At first I did the creative artistic work only for myself, over the course of time it became more and more. Then, I started to take it seriously and approach it professionally.
There was always a little bit of coincidence that brought me into contact with people through whom my first big orders were realized.
When you are looking for inspiration, what resources do you turn to?
It varies a lot. It's good for me to be in nature and just observe movements, structures, and colors that change with light. But even in the city, there are always interesting visual impressions that lead to new ideas. Or I find materials that I find interesting and that stimulate creativity.
Walk us through a typical day in your studio. What is your routine?
Fortunately, I don't have a routine. There is important free time to let something new emerge, and time for when what has been experienced and what has been seen is processed. My ideas and inspirations emerge, disappear again, and reappear.
Finding the right rhythm to be productive can be a challenge, what advice do you have for staying productive and focused?
That's right - finding the right one is often not easy. I've noticed that it's easier if I just start without worrying too much about what's best at the moment.
Start and, if possible, continue to work without judging and surrender yourself to the process, let it develop in its own way.
What is your advice for combating creative block?
I don't have any advice! I'm lucky that I haven't had a creative block yet.
However, it is often good to do something completely different, preferably something with your hands- something that can even be little - without judging it.
As an artist, how do you measure your success? Can you recall a specific event or milestone(s) in your career that made you feel successful?
For me, my success is first and foremost the creative work itself, the creation of art to see how it takes form.
Then, of course, especially when it can be seen in exhibitions and with my collectors and customers - and they enjoy the work.
How do you see the art market changing? Where do you see yourself in this transition?
I try not to get too involved with the market so as not to be strongly influenced in my creativity. I focus on my work and on developing myself in my work and in my style, but also staying true to myself and being authentic.
Do you consider yourself, and all artists, to be entrepreneurs? Why or why not?
Anyone who actively does something of their own is an entrepreneur in some way.
But I also don't think so much in terms of these definitions and don't see it as necessary to assign a label.
Failure is an inevitable part of success in any field. Do you have advice for overcoming setbacks?
Don't take it too personally, stay true to yourself and keep working.
What sparked your interest in partnering with TurningArt? Has your experience with TurningArt differed from other art companies you have worked with?
Back in 2015 I was inspired by TA’s idea of art-rentals as changing artworks - always creating new moods and thus also a new sense of space.
Variety and change are good for you. It can support creative processes and also promote a lively environment, as well as exchange and communication. Our collaboration and opportunities to enhance corporate environments with my art via rentals and sales have nicely grown from those early days.
What does having your artwork in the workplace and other commercial or public spaces mean to you?
The environment in which we spend time is very important and has a great influence on our well-being. I’m happy when my work contributes something to this.
Art is also inspiring for many people and also helps to support people in their own creativity. I found the idea of supporting people through my work to be very valuable and motivating.
To see more featured TurningArtists, return to our blog. To get Rica Belna's art in your space, set up a free consultation with an Art Advisor here!