Anya Keyes is a Ukrainian-born artist who grew up in Soviet-era Ukraine before moving to the United States at the age of sixteen. She had long dreamed of becoming a painter, but eager to make it in a new country, Anya initially pursued a career in pharmacy instead. After a decade-long hiatus from art, moving to Portland in 2017 gave her the kick-in-the-butt inspiration she needed to switch careers.
Since then Keyes who shares a studio with other female artists in Portland collaborated with other local artists and displayed her work in solo and group shows. Her artwork graces the walls of private collectors around the country and is also part of the public art collection in the City of Portland.
Keyes’s paintings draw on her experience as a first-generation immigrant, a foreign-born mother, friend, and citizen. A woman seemingly integrated into modern American life, yet who occasionally slips into her rural Slavic upbringing. Keyes is passionate about using her art to give voice to Slavic immigrants and to connect with and give back to her community.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Anya is deeply involved in her community. She has painted several murals in her neighborhood and regularly donates proceeds from her work to organizations that support black health and Ukrainian causes.
Bio
As an immigrant, I’ll forever be deeply connected to my upbringing in Soviet-era Ukraine. In my work, I blend elements of Ukrainian folklore and daily life, with modern American visuals to create a unique and personal fusion of cultures.
My portraits, which I paint in oil, often feature somber-looking women against a bright and colorful background, which represents my own struggle to fully embrace the joy of living in the US. I attribute this to the generational trauma of living under Soviet rule and the elusive sense of belonging that comes with being an immigrant.
Through my portraits I increase visibility of Ukrainian-American culture in the US, and by extension Slavic immigrant culture around the world. I paint so immigrants feel seen, valued, and connected to their new community.
Statement