By: Alva Ree
Ukrainian-born artist and illustrator Inna Sych has garnered attention in the international art world with her elegant lines, elongated figures, and emotionally resonant compositions. Known for exploring complex themes like femininity, trauma, war, and hope, Sych’s work has been exhibited across Europe and the U.S., including her most recent participation in the New York ART EXPO. Now based in Vienna, she is preparing to unveil her newest and most personal series yet: Idols. In this exclusive interview, Inna reflects on memory, the emotional impact of art, and why childhood icons continue to influence us.
Q. Inna, you’ve previously created works exploring trauma, violence, and war. What led you to shift focus toward your new series, Idols?
It came from a very quiet, personal place. One day, I stumbled upon a poster of my favorite childhood heroine, and I was filled with emotion. It made me realize how deeply we’re shaped by the images we carry from childhood: figures we admire, stories we hold dear, and the unspoken comfort those memories provide. I wanted to explore that feeling on canvas.
Q. So who were your idols? Who influenced young Inna Sych?
Some were iconic figures — movie stars, singers, and fictional characters. Others were very real: my mother, my teachers. Sometimes, even strangers who showed strength or kindness. An idol doesn’t need to be globally famous — it just needs to leave an impression on your soul.
Q. Visually, what does Idols look like?
The series is composed primarily of imagined portraits — emotional reflections of memory. The faces aren’t exact replicas; instead, I focus on gestures, silhouettes, and atmosphere. Some viewers may feel a sense of nostalgia, while others might see reflections of themselves. That’s the beauty of memory — it’s both universal and personal.
Q. Your previous series often conveyed raw emotional power, exploring themes like war, displacement, and injustice. How does Idols compare in tone?
It’s softer, more luminous. After everything we’ve experienced as Ukrainians — and as a global community — I wanted to create something that offers a sense of calm. Something that encourages people to reconnect with their inner strength, not just their wounds. This series is about looking inward with gentleness.
Q. You recently exhibited in New York. Can you tell us about that experience?
In New York, I participated in the international art fair New York ART EXPO, where I showcased my works. It was wonderful to see such a strong interest in my pieces. I presented works from two series: Embodied Boundaries and Body in Darkness.
Each work in this series explores different aspects of human corporeality and self-perception. They reflect how the body can serve as a profound form of self-expression, from physical presence to emotional depth.
In Body in Darkness, I explore the complex relationship people have with their bodies and sexuality. The sense of restriction and internal darkness plays a significant role in how we perceive ourselves and others. In dim light, where imperfections fade and clarity softens, there emerges an inner mysticism. My heroines strive to emerge from the shadows of their own consciousness — they begin to touch, to feel, to stop fearing their bodies and desires. It’s a visual story about embracing authenticity and confronting the taboos and shame that often silence us. Through art, we uncover new layers of identity and begin to transform shame into a form of liberation.
Q. Has your visual language changed with Idols?
Yes, there are subtle shifts. The lines are gentler, and the colors are warmer. I still use elongated forms and expressive eyes — that’s a part of my style — but in Idols, I wanted to introduce more light. These portraits feel like windows into the soul, shaped by memory and imagination.
Q. What’s the deeper message behind Idols?
That even in uncertain times, we can reconnect with something soft, something sacred. Our idols — whoever they were — helped shape who we are. Remembering them is a way of reconnecting with ourselves.
Q. What’s next for you?
I’m preparing to exhibit Idols in Vienna this fall, with hopes to show it in Kyiv and Paris afterward. I’m also continuing my charitable work through art — fundraising for Ukraine remains close to my heart. And I hope to bring Idols to New York next year.
Q. Final question: What do you hope people feel when they encounter this new work?
I hope they feel seen. Comforted. Perhaps even a sense of healing. That’s what art gave me, and I would like to share that experience with others.
Follow Inna Sych on Instagram @innaart_sych for more insight into her creative process and upcoming exhibitions.
