Artist Rasa Staskonytė is, by nature, an eager explorer. No matter where her journeys take her, she brings along oil paints and canvases, compelled by an irresistible urge to create. Her unwavering commitment to painting reveals not just her devotion to art, but also her inquisitiveness about the surrounding world.
The artist believes that the truest form of painting comes from working directly with reality—portraying not only the appearance but also unveiling the internal world. In this way, painting transforms into a journey of uncovering the essence of her subjects, as well as exploring her own inner self. This engagement with firsthand observation lends an authenticity and emotional richness to her work.
Rasa is especially drawn to portraiture, using it as a means to peer beneath outward appearances and uncover the stories that lie within. She notes that even beneath what seems like a rough exterior, multiple layers of experience and personality remain concealed. Through her sensitive methods, she aims to truly understand her models and convey the uniqueness of their character to those who view her art.
Beyond painting portraits, Rasa Staskonytė also breathes vitality into her studies of plants, frequently employing iridescent brushstrokes to suggest movement and life. Her application of bright, translucent colors infuses her pieces with vibrancy and levity, resulting in artwork that feels fresh and full of spirit, inviting viewers into a shared connection with both the subject and the artist herself.
About this artwork+
The painting captures the rugged beauty of Étretat's famous cliffs under a vibrant, sunlit sky. Thick, energetic brushstrokes in shades of blue, gray, and purple form the imposing cliffs, with a particular form that resembles an elephant dipping its head into the sea. The sea itself is animated with swirling strokes of blue and white, suggesting the movement of water. Above, the sky is rendered in a luminous blend of yellow, white, and pastel hues, conveying the serene warmth of a sunny day. A cluster of darker, more defined brush marks near the center might suggest distant birds or boats. The overall effect is both dynamic and tranquil, inviting the viewer to feel the spray of the sea and the warmth of the sun.
