BIOGRAPHY

Eve Cornejo is a Russian-born, Southwest Oklahoma–based artist whose journey from engineering and accounting to painting showcases a lifelong devotion to creativity. Working in oil with a contemporary realism style, she captures fleeting moments of connection, atmosphere, and emotion—whether through intimate portraits, evocative still life works, or landscapes inspired by her travels across Europe, South America, and Africa. Her award-winning work, including a Best of Show award at the Chisholm Trail Arts Council, has been featured in regional exhibitions and publications, encouraging viewers to reflect on culture, memory, and the beauty of human experience.

ARTIST INSIGHTS

How are your background and life experiences connected to your art?

Growing up in Russia, surrounded by its rich artistic culture, I developed a love for art in all its forms. Travels across Europe, South America, and Africa further broadened my perspective, exposing me to diverse performing and visual arts. In my work, I seek to blend these experiences, weaving together color, pattern, and cultural expression into pieces that echo the universal language of creativity.

Who are some of your biggest artistic influences?

I tend to favor realism in my artwork, though I also have a deep appreciation for the performing arts and a wide range of artistic movements, including surrealism and impressionism. Some of the greatest influences from the past include Salvador Dali, Shishkin, Renoir, Repin, and Norman Rockwell. I am equally inspired by contemporary artists with immense talent, such as Roberto Ferry, Alex Venezia, Casey Bough, Joseph Daily, and Osamu Obi.

How have you developed your artist career?

I have no formal art education, but art has always inspired and fascinated me. While staying at home with my children, I began painting simply for fun—rediscovering a creative passion I could no longer ignore. Realizing I needed more training to pursue art seriously, I enrolled in classes at the Oklahoma Academy of Classical Art and continued my development through workshops with established artists. Over time, I began participating in local shows, taking portrait commissions, and earning recognition, including multiple awards and a 2024 OVAC member exhibition at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.

What does your artistic work intend to communicate to its audience?

In my artwork, I aim to evoke emotion, drawing from my own experiences and feelings. I hope to connect with viewers through a shared appreciation of beauty, color, and form.

Does your work comment on any current social or political issues?

Not at this time. My current focus is on fostering connection and highlighting common ground among people, rather than engaging directly with social or political issues.

Do you have a particular story that stands out from your career as an artist?

One story that stands out in my career is when my painting Oklahoma Sky was selected for the Oklahoma Hall of Fame exhibit in 2024. For years, I had taken countless photos of the sky—Oklahoma’s skies are incredibly vivid, full of color and drama, and they’ve always fascinated me. That painting was born from quiet moments of observation and personal inspiration. To see it recognized and displayed in such a meaningful setting was deeply rewarding—it felt like a full-circle moment where something I created out of simple awe and love for my surroundings found a place in the broader artistic community.

What is one thing you would like your audience to know about you?

One thing I’d like my audience to know is that I came to art through an unconventional path—with no formal training at first, just a deep passion and the desire to create. Each piece reflects not only careful observation but also a true expression of my vision and experiences. I hope when you engage with my work, you sense the honesty and heartfelt story behind it—and find a connection that feels genuine and meaningful beyond the canvas.

Which current art world trends are you following?

I follow two current trends: the revival of traditional techniques and the integration of AI in art. There is a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship, with artists bringing back methods like fresco painting, indirect techniques used by the old masters, weaving, and pottery. AI is playing a growing role in creating stunning visual art and has been embraced by many artists. I’m curious to see how it will impact the art world in the long term.

Why have you chosen to sell your work in the 1515 Lincoln Gallery?

I find the staff at Lincoln Gallery to be responsive and welcoming, creating a positive and professional atmosphere. I also appreciate the gallery’s location and the inviting ambiance of the space. The gallery offers a variety of opportunities to connect with audiences, and I fully support their efforts to reach a global audience through online platforms and digital resources.

WATCH

Trail Talk Eve Cornejo

ARTIST STATEMENT

Working primarily in oil, my paintings explore the emotional depth of everyday life, with a special interest in people as the central theme. Inspired by travel, nature, and human connection, I use color, texture, and form to express what words often cannot. Through my art, I aim to create an opportunity of introspection and resonance, bridging cultures and experiences.

 Eve Cornejo’S AVAILABLE ART

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