Kate Bortnik
Artist
I live and work in Lviv, Ukraine. My artistic journey began in 2016 with acrylics, inspired by the works and success of artist Lilit Sarkisian. In 2017, I discovered watercolor, influenced by the works of Jean Haines. In 2018, I held my first solo watercolor exhibition in Lviv, which solidified my interest in the loose watercolor technique. In 2019, I had my second exhibition and began studying at Jean Haines' international online watercolor school.
Since 2020, I have expanded my skills in both watercolor and acrylics by taking on commercial projects, including murals and illustrations. My works have found their way into private collections in the USA. As I am deeply inspired by Lilit Sarkisian’s creativity, in 2021, I participated in two of her educational projects, “Commercial Acrylic and Watercolor.” As a result, my works are in the collection of prima ballerina Kateryna Kukhar and philanthropist Garik Korogodskyi.
In 2022, I turned my attention to digital art, and in 2023, after completing a course in “Character Design,” I returned to watercolor and acrylic, focusing on travel themes.
In 2022, I turned my attention to digital art, and in 2023, after completing a course in “Character Design,” I returned to watercolor and acrylic, focusing on travel themes.
The year 2024 was a milestone: I made it into the top 10 of the “Commercial Acrylic” course, organized a solo exhibition as part of the “Rituals on the Peaks” project (Yasinya, Ukraine), and participated in a portfolio creation intensive led by Tetiana Kramarenko. I also met Stefan Sagmeister as part of the “Disarium” project (Lviv, Ukraine) and gifted him a portrait.
Currently, I work with acrylics, watercolors, and alcohol inks, exploring themes of travel and impressions.
Artist statement
I am Kateryna Bortnik, a travel artist from Ukraine, who sees color as the language of feelings, energy, and memories. In my works, I combine watercolor, which conveys the delicacy and subtlety of emotions, with acrylic, which emphasizes the strength and dynamics of moments.
Each of my paintings tells a story, inspired by travel, the grandeur of the world, and its elusive beauty.
My art lives with the energy that transforms space, filling it with brightness and joy. It reminds us that beauty is hidden in simple things and in the unique moments of our lives. I want my works to be a source of inspiration, sparking dreams, awakening hopes, and helping people feel the joy of every day.
I believe that each painting carries a piece of my soul, which resonates with you. As a travel artist, I perceive the world as an endless source of inspiration, and through my work, I aim to transmit its energy, vibrancy, and harmony.
Contacts