Olesia Kharlamova

My name is Olesia Kharlamova, and I’m originally from Ukraine. I’m lucky to have come to Canada two months before the war started, but all of my relatives are still there (my mother, sisters, etc.). Art is a way for me to feel relaxed and calm, especially during times of war in my native country. While I can’t create art about war topics, I find inspiration in nature, which remains beautiful even when the world around us is crumbling. I’m also inspired by the resilience of nature, which can recreate itself even after a nuclear disaster. I now live in the wonderful city of Port Moody, and the nature of British Columbia inspires me more than ever.
I believe that art is a form of therapy that can help people feel better even if they don’t go to a therapist. I also believe that everyone has the ability to create wonderful art pieces. If my art can inspire someone to start creating art, it would be the best prize for me.
One important theme in my work is protecting nature. I create landscapes because they are incredible, and we can protect our environment in simple ways like using less plastic and reducing waste, using bikes instead of driving alone, and buying organic produce.