Victoria Steklova (@VictoriSteklova) is a photographer and visual artist whose captivating work, rooted in aesthetic fashion minimalism, transforms the world seen through her lens into profound art. Her journey as an artist is driven by an innate desire for creative expression, an impulse to “notice the unusual in the simple,” and a belief that art is a powerful reflection of modernity.

In this exclusive art interview, we delve into the world of Victoria, exploring her unique process, her inspirations, and the philosophy that shapes her compelling visual narratives. Join us as we uncover the quiet power and beauty she brings to life through her camera.

🟥  Can you share a bit about your background and the journey that led you to becoming an artist?

Since childhood I’ve been looking for ways to express myself creatively. I settled on fashion photography. I have been attracted to fashion industry- cover stories of magazines, beautiful fashion shows.

🟥  Was there a defining moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue art seriously?

At first it was just hobby for me, then I caught myself thinking that working in office, I think only about shooting. So I quit my job and went fully into the creative profession. It was the best decision.

🟥  Do you remember the first piece of art you created, and what inspired you to make it?

My first fashion photographs were with my friends, who were passionate about this field too. I have always been driven by unconventional ideas and the desire to create.

🟥  What inspires you the most when creating your art?

To notice the unusual in the simple. The impetus can be felt when watching a film, reading a book, or just taking a walk in the park. Main that it is our honest feedback inside and wish to create, to send this message the world with the help of my works.

🟥  Are there specific activities, rituals, or moments that fuel your creativity?

I like to be alone with my art. The easiest way to do this is early in the morning with a cup of coffee, when thoughts are fresh and the world is still on pause.

🟥  How would you personally define art, and what deeper meaning does it hold for you?

Art is a reflection of modernity. I think that the artist as a conductor transmits messages through the forms of his own self-expression.

🟥  What part of the creative journey excites you the most—conceiving an idea, the act of creating, or finishing the piece?

In my opinion every part of the creative process is important, whether it’s post-production or creative exploration in the beginning. It’s like the stages of life. Each one has a special mood and meaning. And often you don’t know what new and interesting solution it may lead to.

🟥  Do you follow a structured plan when creating art, or is your process more spontaneous?

I wouldn’t call it a plan, it’s very rational sounding. I always leave room for pleasant accidents in my creative processes. Before creating, I always have a picture in my head of what I want to transfer into reality. It’s a visualisation – my plan.

🟥  What time of day do you feel the most creative, and why do you prefer that time for your work?

When I can stay in silence with your work and pure thoughts. The easiest time to do this is early in the morning. That way can hear yourself louder.

🟥  Do you listen to music while creating, and how does it influence your process?

Combining visuals and audio makes the inspiration and process more vivid. For me, it is most often neoclassical.

🟥  Do you have any specific rituals or routines you follow before starting a new project?

Yes, before every new creative process I need to be alone with myself, my thoughts, pictures in my head, do something that fills me up. This is how I accumulate feelings for the realisation of my idea.

🟥  What is the most challenging aspect of creating art, and how do you navigate those?

For me, the hardest part is if there is no time to create new art. And the whole creative process itself is a natural comfortable environment for me, where I am happy at all stages.

🟥  What keeps you motivated during times when creativity feels like a struggle?

There are times when you’re just tired, it’s natural. Then you need to rest, organise pleasant events for yourself. And it is easier to move on.

🟥  Can you share an experience or lesson that contributed the most to your growth as an artist?

Create whenever you feel the wish inside. Not to postpone, not to wait, but to create. It paves new paths and opportunities.

🟥  Is there a piece of advice you received that completely changed the way you create or think about art?

When I was taking my first steps in art, there was still a lot of doubt in my actions for me, one experienced creator gave me wise advice. “The way you do it, only you can do it!” Then these words really clarified my thoughts and influenced my confidence. It’s so simple and ingenious in my opinion. There are brighter, more interesting art, but you go your own way and do it the way only you can. It’s calming and inspiring. Looking deep inside yourself is important.

🟥  When you view a piece of art, what qualities or emotions do you look for?

I like the creative thoughts from art. I want to see beauty, purity, hope that will help me to understand, to become a better person.

🟥  How do you perceive art’s purpose and its impact on individuals and society?

Art translates aspects of reality. It pays attention and makes you think. The creative person passes real life through the prism of his thoughts and actions and sends a message to the world. In my opinion, an artist should have a certain responsibility towards the audience.

🟥  In your view, what do concepts like “passion” and “uniqueness” represent in art?

For me, art = passion. The beautiful urge to create is inspiring. Unexpected and more often than not simple solutions in art usually lead to an objective opinion of uniqueness.

🟥  What are the non-negotiable essentials in your workspace?

The absence of hustle, the feeling of quiet peaceful happiness. That’s very important to me. I like to create with this mood.

🟥  Do you have a favorite tool or object in your studio that holds sentimental value?

There’s no particular object. I just like my rhythm in the creative process, the schedule, the aesthetic details of my interior and the delicious coffee, of course:)

🟥  What’s the one thing you always need by your side while creating art?

Tasty coffee. This drink has power over me. It inspires me during the shooting process and in post-production.

🟥  Who are the artists or people you admire the most, and why?

I admire people with inquisitive creative minds, who are constantly creating, generating new ideas and inspiring others make beautiful. I think they are true artists.

🟥  Imagine you could create a piece of art in collaboration with someone from history. Who would you choose and why?

I think, I would be very interested in learning about and shooting a portrait of Audrey Hepburn. I admire her beauty of soul and looks, of course.

🟥  What’s your superpower?

I think I’m very lucky to have a restless desire to create. It comes from within, I can’t do anything about it, and I don’t want to, I like it, and who my art responds too, I guess. I’m grateful to the universe for that.

🟥  What does success as an artist mean to you—recognition, impact, or something else entirely?

First and foremost to be satisfied with my own self-expression in art. I’m a perfectionist, so with it can be a problem. And of course for me, when my work resonates with other people, it’s inspiring.

🟥  Can you tell us about a piece of your art that holds a special place in your heart and why it’s so meaningful to you?

Many of my pieces have special meaning to me. Because I sincerely live each of these stories, it is me in different periods of time.

🟥  What are your dreams or goals for the future?

To keep moving in unison with my true self. And that the desire and opportunity to create beautiful things never leave me. This is the recipe to an interesting life for me always. Happy to have it.

🟥  How would you define a “creative person”?

This is always a passionate person. He sees the beautiful in simple things. It’s a special magic.

🟥  In your opinion, what are the positive and negative differences between being an artist today and being an artist a century ago?

As I said before art always absorbs and reflects reality. Modern art is interesting in my opinion because of its meanings and concepts. I think it is not enough for our sophisticated brains just to see a beautiful picture.

🟥  In your opinion, what are the best and most challenging aspects of being an artist?

The great talent of the artist is to touch the thoughts and feelings of many people. But it is also a responsibility. After all, such art resonates and sets the mood in society.

🟥  What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to build a meaningful career?

Listening and hearing yourself. Move with your impulses in your own rhythm and always strive to create!

Relevant Links:

Twitter: x.com/victoristeklova
Instagram: instagram.com/victoriasteklova

Note: The answers given by the artist have been quoted verbatim without any editing to preserve the artist’s authentic voice for our readers.