March 2025: Elena Markova - Acrylic Painting

Elena Markova, an accomplished artist, relocated to Portland in 2013 with her family, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage from Eastern Europe. A graduate of a traditional art college, Elena honed her skills in classical painting while immersing herself in Slavic and Orthodox folklore, which continues to influence her distinctive artistic style. Her family history traces back to Poland and northern Russia, where she spent formative years visiting her grandmother, who lived alone in a serene forest. These experiences nurtured Elena’s deep connection with nature, instilling a sense of tranquility and wonder that resonates in her work. Since settling in Oregon, Elena has found boundless inspiration in the region’s verdant landscapes and ethereal beauty. Her paintings often evoke a dreamlike fusion of memory and imagination, blending elements of her Eastern European roots with the mystical charm of the Pacific Northwest. Through her art, Elena invites viewers to explore her unique world—one where nature, folklore, and personal history converge to create captivating, otherworldly scenes.