

Ariadna Dane
Born: 1984
Hometown: Kemerovo
Based in: London, UK
Born: 1984
Hometown: Kemerovo
Based in: London, UK
ABOUT ARIADNA
Ariadna Dane is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in London, UK. In 2017, she left an established career in finance to pursue her ambition of being an artist.
Through her upbringing in Siberia and travelling, Ariadna had discovered a connection to nature which became a source of inspiration for her evolving art practice.
ABOUT THE WORK
In her work, Ariadna grew fascinated by the newer, less commonly used contemporary materials and techniques, and is currently exploring how they can be used in combination with technology.
The creative process behind her “Organic Wreaths” and “Basal Elements” series involves experimentation with techniques to imitate and amplify nature. Ariadna creates forms and textures with natural aesthetic quality, reminiscent of organic cells, celestial structures, basic life forms or fossils. Due to the nature of materials and techniques used, the process of making is fluid and alive. The resulting forms and textures are partially chance and partially calculation; the outcome of both ceding the artist’s control over the process and being acutely aware of the development of forms and textures. Just like in nature, every resulting element is unique and cannot be repeated.
To complete her compositions, Ariadna uses a combination of collage, cut-out and shadow techniques. While echoing shapes of the ink elements, the cutouts represent their stark contrast, highlighting the disparity between having and loosing.
Ariadna’s work elicits a sense or wonder, transfigured into a moment of much-needed reflection.
In 2021, Ariadna’s first augmented reality work was exhibited at Art in the Age of Now, a group exhibition named “Unmissable” by Forbes.
When creating a physical artwork, I work with alcohol inks which is an under-appreciated yet fascinating material. It can never be fully controlled and only allows me to guide it towards an outcome. There is always an element of surprise. The process is symbolic of our relationships with nature and it is therapeutic, in a way that it teaches me to let go of control and expectations.
What inspires you?
My current work is inspired by the natural world, yet sometimes a different kind of inspiration comes from working on a piece in the studio. I make something, and all of a sudden get this "yes" feeling and immediately my imagination starts to bubble up with new images, new ideas, new concepts. This is when I know I am onto something special.
Describe your creative process.
My creative process can come both from intuitive and analytic sources. When I work intuitively, there is very little planning and the end destination is unknown. At other times, inspiration comes from research or during travels, such as when I come across a mesmerising natural wonder. Here, my work is more planned and directional.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Contemporary, sculptural, natural.
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
I admire the work of such contemporary artists as Marlene Huissoud (France) and Saype (France), for the innovation, meaning and impact that I see in their work.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
If I had to choose one, it would be precision knife that allows me to cut clean and fluid lines.
Where do you go for inspiration?
I travel, I go to the places where I can be alone with nature. There, I keep still and observe what is happening around me, as well as what comes up internally. During the pandemic travelling is challenging, so I have been trying to experience familiar places from a new perspective, seeing things I have not noticed before, going deeper.
Education
Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London
United Kingdom, 2017
Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London
United Kingdom, 2016
Awards
I LIKE NETWORKING Mentoring Programme
2021
Zealous Stories Mixed Media
2019
Exhibitions
Art in the Age of Now
United Kingdom, 2021
Art on a Postcard at Soho Revue Gallery
United Kingdom, 2021
Wimbledon Art Fair
United Kingdom, 2019
Art Below at Regents Park Station
United Kingdom, 2019
Wimbledon Art Fair
United Kingdom, 2018
Organic Wreaths
United Kingdom, 2018
A Way with Colour
United Kingdom, 2018
Wimbledon Art Studios “Open Studios” Show
United Kingdom, 2017
Wimbledon Art Fair
United Kingdom, 2017