Slavena Koneva

Art is standing with one hand extended into the universe and one hand extended into the world, and letting ourselves be a conduit for passing energy.'

-Albert Einstein

Slavena was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, where she studied at the National School of Fine Arts, and later completed a BA (Hons) Fine Art degree at Solent University, in Southampton. Throughout her academic years, Slavena developed an exceptional knowledge of fine art and an in-depth understanding of technical practices in various different aspects of fine art.

'My academic experience developed my confidence in conducting educational workshops. I feel inspired and motivated every time I see students achieve their creative goals.'

Throughout her career, Slavena has established and participated in various art projects along with other artists and educators. Having seen the impact of art on children's development and the way it affects adults, Slavena is dedicated to implementing art within the contemporary educational setting and transforming it into a progressive learning environment.

As an artist, Slavena's practice is based on mixed media. She likes to combine different mediums and materials to add visual effects and texture to her paintings. Her sculptures mainly consist of upcycled materials such as paper, cardboard, wood, metal and textile which she often combines with clay, plaster, or both.

'In my opinion, the diversity of working with mixed media materials provides endless means of self-expression and encourages creative thinking whilst allowing space for experimentation and triggering curiosity.'