Original artwork description:

Honey Girl by Inga Makarova is a beautifully rendered and quietly powerful portrait that invites both admiration and reflection. Created using pencil and gouache on paper, this artwork captures a young woman mid-turn, her expression serene yet enigmatic, as a constellation of tiny bees flutters delicately around her.

Makarova’s distinctive style is evident in every detail – from the graceful curvature of the figure’s pose to the expressive lines of the hair, caught as if in motion. The honey-toned skin, marked by freckles, is carefully layered in soft washes, allowing light and shadow to play naturally across her form. The bees are executed with whimsical charm, yet their symbolism adds an intriguing layer to the scene.


There’s an underlying irony in the title. While the image is undeniably beautiful, the woman is no passive muse. Her direct gaze and composure suggest strength, autonomy, and awareness. The bees – so often drawn to sweetness – may symbolise admiration, attention, or projection, turning the work into a thoughtful commentary on how femininity is perceived.

A fine example of Makarova’s ability to combine elegance, technical precision, and conceptual depth, Honey Girl will appeal to collectors seeking contemporary works that spark conversation and offer poetic subtlety. It’s a gentle yet assertive piece, offering beauty with an edge.

Materials used:

Pencil, Gouache

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