Kira Yustak
Long Branch, New Jersey
Artist Kira Yustak creates fantastical scenes inspired by childhood memories, dreams, and the natural world. Each piece feels like a fragment of a larger narrative, set in an alternate reality, rendered in a style she describes as comic realism. “I am in awe of the natural forces beyond our control, always striving to capture the wild beauty found in the world,” shares Kira. Residing in New Jersey, she finds influence in the works of lowbrow, folk, and surrealist artists. Kira works in her cozy home studio, a space that sits at the heart of her creative process. When she's not painting, she enjoys spending time with her son, gardening, and visiting the beach.
Artist Statement
My work explores the relationship between people and the natural world. Humans are integral to nature, yet we exist in a constant state of flux and conflict with it. We strive to control nature and harness its power, and our daily actions profoundly impact the planet. While we are captivated by nature's uncontrollable forces, we also seek to capture its untamed beauty. This ongoing struggle between humanity and nature is evident in our tendency to overpopulate, industrialize, and exploit resources, which ultimately harms our environment.
However, plants and animals exhibit remarkable resilience, learning to adapt and survive. Sometimes, we forget that we are part of the natural world, and ironically, our actions ultimately affect us. These themes intrigue me, and my paintings serve as a medium to explore this concept—sometimes with humor, other times with a more serious tone.
However, plants and animals exhibit remarkable resilience, learning to adapt and survive. Sometimes, we forget that we are part of the natural world, and ironically, our actions ultimately affect us. These themes intrigue me, and my paintings serve as a medium to explore this concept—sometimes with humor, other times with a more serious tone.
Artist Background
Hunter College
Master of Fine Arts, 1994
Pratt Institute
Bachelor of Fine Arts, 1990
Press
Long Branch art exhibit focuses in on 'Natural Wonder'
Nature-Inspired Painter With Unique Perspective
Kira Yustak - Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center
Artist at Long Branch's Heart