About

Silvena Toncheva Contemporary Artist

Welcome to my dark fairytale ruled by mermaids and other fantasy creatures. My inspiration springs from myths and legends, dreams and reflections of real-life experiences. 

People who look at my paintings are often reminded of the iconographic style used in the portrayal of saints. Most of my paintings are related to spirituality and tempt you to escape in an imaginary world filled with colour and emotion.

I have been painting all my life as an expression of my inner self.  I was five years old when my mum (a computer engineer by education)  first showed me how to paint mermaids and they became constant characters in a lot of my artworks. I find dark beauty in these magical creatures.

Being in love with literature for a lifetime I do use a lot of symbols to convey meaning. I do believe that every single colour, texture, object, shadow or line has a particular purpose and signifies an important moment in the development of the self.

For me art is meant to pose questions, make you feel something. An essential part of appreciating art is that instant connection at the encounter. I am fascinated by its unique ability to connect with the soul of the person who looks at it and to give them the opportunity to see something very personal and different every time. An artwork is like a living universe, it has a powerful energy within which you can feel when you are close. 

My signature media is a type of water-colours called 'honey watercolours' which not only have extremely bright pigmentation but also allows me to build up texture: layering. In some of my videos you can see behind the scenes. 

In terms of art style I identify as a contemporary NaïveArt artist. I am currently a proud member of the Association of British Naive Artists - ABNA. A few years back I decided to first display my works and joined LSA (Leamington Studio Artists) and UK Artists. And that's from where a new art-venture started...