BIO:
Irina Owlik is a fine art photographer, born in 1989 in Vitebsk, Belarus, and based in Riga, Latvia. She studied at the Institute of Visual Arts (Master of Photography Arts) and holds a degree in Marketing. Irina defines her practice as fine art photography at the intersection of reality and digital transformation — a language she calls «Surrealism of the everyday».
Her visual language is built on sensations and spontaneous associations, with works originating from mobile photography and alternative techniques such as scanner imaging and vintage optics (Helios lens with a reversed element). Through editing, her images move beyond literal depiction toward emotional, surreal forms.
Her work is both intimate and universal: a testament to freedom, feeling, and the courage to be visible.
Representation:
- 2025–2026 — Contract with Monat Gallery (Madrid, Spain). Exhibitions include: Monaco Art Fair 2025, Munich Art Fair 2025, and shows at Monat Gallery, Madrid.
Exhibitions:
- 2025 — Group exhibition at Cydonia restaurant, Riga, Latvia (Gulls and Underfoot series)
- 2025 — Group exhibition Subjektīvā realitātē (Subjective Reality), photostudia Uniq, Riga, Latvia
- 2025 (Sept. 2025) — Group exhibition, Women in Art Biennale, Artio Gallery, London («In Time» and «Energy’)
- 2025 (Sept.) — Group exhibition, Monaco Art Fair
Publications / Features:
- Not Gulls featured by PhotoVogue (Vogue Italia), 2025
ARTIST STATEMENT:
My art is metaphorical and emerges at the intersection of everyday life and the inner world. It is dedicated to the search for inner strength and freedom. My visual language is built on sensations and spontaneous associations that manifest themselves in color and form.
I find inspiration in ordinary scenes, textures, nature, as well as in childhood memories. My childhood was not joyful, and this taught me that inspiration can arise not only from beautiful and happy moments. Sadness and difficult emotions also hold tremendous energy that can be transformed into the foundation of creativity.
In my practice, I work with mobile photography and alternative equipment such as scanner imaging and vintage optics. Through editing, I transform images, allowing them to reveal new meanings and go beyond literal representation. I call this approach «Surrealism of the everyday.»