Few artists have the opportunity to pursue their passion full time, but Soos Roxana Gabriela is one of the few that have. This artist has been featured in both solo and group exhibitions throughout the world since the late 90s. Her long history can be attributed to a variety of factors, but spontaneity and a unique expression of colour is why so many enjoy the artwork of Soos Roxana Gabriela.
Nature inspires Gabriela to create her vivid art and her use of the pallet knife as well as brushes on canvas is simply unparalleled. Whether she is presenting us with a floral piece or one of a seascape, we are immediately drawn to the masterful representation of her art. Soos Roxana Gabriela is originally from Romania, but her love for art has taken her to many different places. Her pieces provide the viewer with the chance to dream while allowing the piece to inspire them. We are pleased to enjoy all of Gabriela’s art throughout the years, but now we can talk to her directly as she answers just a few of our most burning questions.
First, do you have a favourite piece from your many years as an artist or are there many?
I had plenty of artworks that I loved, but I have especially enjoyed the outcome of two paintings in particular: one from 2020, my first “Sakura blossom”, which raised my standards for cherry bloom paintings, and the second one would be my latest sunflowers composition, which I consider to be the best. Whatever the case, I make sure to never post a painting unless I am truly pleased by my creation.
A variety of your paintings include sunflowers. Is that your preferred flower?
I do love flowers deeply, and yes, the sunflower is one of my favourites. I sometimes consider it to be the queen of my garden. I make sure to always plant a few different breeds near the fence, behind all the other flowers.
How do you begin a painting? Is it purely inspirational or do you prefer to have a plan for the canvas?
I would say my approach to the start of the painting process is rather disorganized and a little messy. As a full time artist everything has to be on schedule and perfectly planned out, but my paintings just wouldn’t be the same in between bursts of inspiration. Most of the time I just go with whatever my mind feels like creating, and my ideas are usually reinforced by the things I observe in nature.
Your pieces have a stunning colour scheme as well as textural elements. What inspires you to create such texture with the pallet knife?
Whenever I’m in nature I want to feel a connection with every element of it. That concept also applies in my art. To me, a plain painting wouldn’t do my source of inspiration justice. I feel like texture and vibrant colors are important elements of self expression, and the pallet knife is a useful tool in achieving my desired effect.
How long have you been a full time artist and what type of jobs did you have before you were able to allow art to be your full time business?
Before I took on art as a full time job I used to be an art teacher. The job was demanding, but it was really rewarding seeing children succeed in doing what they loved, so that kept me going for a while. After that I moved on to bigger projects in al fresco with my husband, who was already familiar with the field. I feel my lifestyle now as a freelance artist is truly a blessing and I am grateful for all the people who have helped me get this far by collecting and appreciating my art.
Do you have a preferred season for your primary inspiration?
Asking me to compare seasons would be like making me choose a favourite colour. Each and every one of them has their own beautiful traits and inspires me equally. I would say though that my energy level is generally at its highest in May, when the weather is balanced, not exhaustingly hot or way too cold. So I think that influences the way I paint somewhat.
View more artwork by Soos Roxana Gabriela
