The Eastern Daily Press has teamed up with the Urban Art Store to award one NUA student the chance to display their work at the upcoming Under the Stalls art show. Here we take a closer look at one of the finalists
Elena Ghigeanu's artwork often portrays serene moments, capturing the delicate charm of the natural world through the mediums of ink and watercolour.
Ms Ghigeanu said her earlier interactions with nature nurtured her love for this theme: "Growing up, I spent significant time in the forest, witnessing the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
"Those experiences shaped how I see the world.
"Nature taught me how to observe the details and respect them."
Her artwork is more than just a physical representation; it carries an emotional depth, following a moment in high school that shifted her understanding of art.
Ms Ghigeanu recalled a key conversation with an artist who, upon seeing her drawing of a single tree, asked if she felt lonely.
She said: "It struck me deeply because at the time, I was indeed feeling lonely, and I had not consciously realised I was expressing it through my work.
"Art does not show what we see but reveal what is within us, even when we are not aware of it."
This eye-opening moment further deepened her relationship with her craft, not just as a hobby but as a vital part of her identity.
Ms Ghigeanu creates art primarily using ink, sometimes complementing it with watercolour to produce a vivid depth.
A piece titled Sheltered, featuring a fox mother with her two kits, symbolises nature's instinct to protect the vulnerable.
She said: "The composition shows them close, almost hidden by nature elements, a moment of vulnerability and protection."
Her preparation for the Under the Stalls fair is buoyed by the aspiration of forming connections with other art enthusiasts.
She cherishes the chance to meet people who connect with her work, willing to hear their interpretations and thoughts.
She said: "I hope people feel a sense of calm and connection when they encounter my work, where they can appreciate the quietness within nature.
"But beyond that, I simply want honest responses.
"Even if someone loves a piece or find it simple, or come with a different perspective, all of them are valuable."
Aside from public feedback, Ms Ghigeanu is eager to interact with fellow artists, seeing this as an opportunity to learn, grow, and step out of the isolation that often accompanies the initial stages of a professional art career.
Under the Stalls provides a crucial platform for budding artists to showcase their talent and gather real-world feedback, fostering community and support.
Looking ahead, Ms Ghigeanu hopes to establish a sustainable practice, with her creative pursuits taking centre stage in her professional life.
She is committed to capturing the minutiae of the natural world, using her keen attention to detail and interest in intimate moments.
Ms Ghigeanu’s journey is one of constant balance between experimentation and developing a recognisable style.
She stated: "This is something I'm actively navigating, and honestly, it's one of my biggest challenges as an artist.
"Nonetheless, no matter what medium I'm working in, ink, watercolor, oils, or digital, there are consistent feature: my focus on nature, my attention to detail, my interest in capturing quiet, intimate moments, and my tendency toward delicate, refined aesthetics."
Ms Ghigeanu's work will be part of Under the Stalls.
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