From my studio: Helena Wierzbicki

I was born and live in the city of Buenos Aires. With a Polish father and an Argentine mother, I've learned to dance the Polka and the Tango. My love of music goes hand in hand with my liking for getting away from everything and staying in that world created only by me, where in my own particular reality I'm happy.

When and why did you start painting?

I've always enjoyed art, from a very early age I had the urge to draw and paint. I was lucky enough to attend the studio of the Argentine master Luis Barragán, who taught me to see what's essential and to pay attention to what my own artwork was demanding.

How do you think a gallery and its artists should help each other?

Seriousness and honesty are needed on both sides. There's nothing nicer than working in harmony with someone who promotes me, otherwise I'd rather not show my artwork. On the other hand, I like that the "static" concept of a gallery has evolved into something more dynamic and less tied to one place, I like it keeping in touch with artists and organising exhibitions in different locations.

What advice would you give to artists who are starting to show their artwork?

My advice would be to do what stirs up passion in them, to steer clear of trends, to be sincere. You have to have confidence in yourself, believe in what you do with humility, a lot of perseverance, always do it as well as you possibly can and think that nothing is out of reach.

How did you sell your first artwork? Is there one you feel a stronger connection with?

I remember selling my first artwork when I was living in Philadelphia (USA), (where I was taking courses at ArtMoore School). My neighbours saw some of my portraits and asked me to paint their two small children, and so I did... from that moment on, lots of portrait commissions started coming in.

I feel very connected to many of my artworks, but one of my favourites is Epiphany.

What is art for you? What part does it play in your life? Do you make a living from art?

For me, art is the expression of the loving, sublime being that connects us with and identifies us with the human and the divine. It has to be able to evoke something in the person looking at it. That's the difference between an artwork and a faithful copy of reality.

I do live from art, by adding effort and passion together I found my way to live from art. For me it's inevitable, a vital drive.

What are your sources of inspiration? Do you identify with any other artist?

Faces and the human figure have always been my sources of inspiration, but I was never interested in working on a mere reproduction of reality, rather in capturing sensations, emotions and giving my artwork a life of its own. The Expressionists are the ones who have influenced me the most.

What is it about your creative process that makes it special?

The search for a certain beauty and above all for expressiveness is always there during my creative process. While I paint, I have the habit of listening to the music I like.

Have you had any exhibitions lately, what can you tell us? Do you have any project in mind?

Lately I've only been taking part in group shows. I've received a few invitations and I'm considering them.