About Yana Stajno

I come to painting from writing. I am the author of many plays, short stories and, most recently, a debut novel. When I learnt to paint I felt as if I had fallen in love or sprouted wings. I was so excited to find I found I could express myself in colour and shape and form, not just in words. And I could tell stories. I love stories. I am excited by everything I see. I draw from observing life, any time any place, doing energetic vibrant studies.  Then, in my studio, I work these studies into paintings on canvas, using oils, charcoal and pastel.  I am influenced by everything I see, but especially the colourists, by the contemporary Expressionists like Leon Bomberg and Frank Auerbach. I am also hugely impressed by the African artists of my birthplace. I hope you enjoy seeing my work as it develops and changes. I also get great pleasure from selling my work and letting it go to new homes. I have collectors of my original paintings all over the world.