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 depicts a serene and somewhat whimsical scene centered around two cats. One cat, appearing content and peaceful, is depicted in a lying posture atop a pillow. Its fur is painted in white, which contrasts strikingly against the darker hues of the background and the vibrant peach tone of the pillow. The second cat, only partially visible, seems to rest in a curled position on a separate patterned cushion below, immersed in soft, fluffy textures that evoke a sense of comfort and tranquility. The background features subdued dark blue and black shades, providing a deep contrast that highlights the subjects. Near the cats, there is a suggestion of domesticity and leisure: a stack of books in one corner, their spines hinting at layers of knowledge or stories contained within, and a vase with blooming red flowers which adds a splash of natural vibrancy to the scene. The text "Mon ir Mano Satiné," painted along the bottom edge, adds a personal or narrative touch, perhaps indicating a special meaning or dedication behind the artwork. The overall composition plays with a palette that balances somberness with pops of color, emphasizing both the tranquility of the moment and the individuality of the elements within the painting.
