Richmond -based artist Natalya Belenkaya explores the complexity of emotions and positive mindset through her art. Whether it’s acrylic bright colors and abstract forms, or her surrealistic charcoal drawings, Natalya invites viewers to look into their subconscious mind and connect with her vision.
Born in Belarus, Natalya grew up in Northern Caucuses. Natalya came to the USA as a refugee in 1993, and she settled in Richmond, Virginia with her family. Now, she shares her heart with us through her artwork here in RVA.
“Since I was a child, I felt a deep pull toward creativity—I just didn’t know what that path would look like in the future,” says Natalya.
Natalya earned her BFA in Communication Arts and Design from Virginia Commonwealth University and began her career as a graphic designer. That experience became an important part of her creative foundation.
Over the past few years, Natalya’s artwork has been exhibited at Art Works, the Sara D. November Gallery, and Crossroads Art Center. Most recently, her painting “Courage to Evolve” received First Place in the All Media Show at Art Works RVA. She has also held two solo exhibitions in Richmond.
Artistic Vision
“I use two very different media… charcoal and acrylic… but, There is one common denominator - each of my artworks regardless of the media I use, is a window into emotion. An emotion that is directly or indirectly provoked by my personal life events or by life events of people I know. My art explores the power of a positive mindset.”
Passion for Art
What drives Natalya is the simple magic of creating something that didn’t exist before. That’s her superpower. And when she sees that her art brings joy or sparks emotion in someone else—that’s what keeps her coming back to the canvas.
Mediums & Techniques
Natalya works with multiple mediums to push her creative boundaries. She loves charcoal for its organic quality and the dramatic contrast it creates between light and dark. “It’s messy, but forgiving”, she says. Acrylic and mixed media offer a different kind of creative freedom for her—she often use symbols like butterflies to communicate her ideas, letting intuition guide the shapes and colors as they emerge.
Creative Process
Natalya rarely starts with a set plan—she trusts the process to guide her. She usually works on two to three pieces at once, trying to keep up with the flow of ideas constantly running through her mind.
Inspiration Sources
Natalya draws inspiration from moments of personal growth, emotional resilience, and self-discovery.
Art & Community
Natayla has been especially focused on bringing her art into the Short Pump area because she’s always felt there aren’t enough cultural events in Short Pump for the community to come together. That’s why she chose to hold both of her solo exhibitions in this area. “I want art to feel accessible—something people can experience right in their own neighborhood, not just downtown. I’m currently exploring venues for future pop-up shows to continue sharing my work with the community in which I live.”
Giving Back
A portion of the proceeds from Natalya’s art shows go to CURE Epilepsy, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to epilepsy research. It’s important to her that her art not only inspires, but also supports meaningful causes.
Audience Connection
Natalya’s goal is simple: she wants her art to spark thoughts and emotions. She truly hopes people see a reflection of themselves in her work—and that it brings a sense of positivity and peace.
Future Projects
“I’m currently looking for a venue in the Short Pump area for a solo pop-up art exhibition in November 2025. I’m also exploring opportunities to collaborate with other creatives—artists, designers, or local businesses—to bring fresh, meaningful projects to life.”, Natalya expressed.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
“Don’t wait for the perfect moment—it may never come. Start creating and share your art with the world now.”
Artistic Collaboration
Natalya welcomes art commissions, and collaborative opportunities and partnerships.
Personal Interests
Natalya loves spending her free time with family—exploring cultural events around town and trying new restaurants together.