Painting is my passion. I try to paint every day. It seems to really fill a void in me and is something that I MUST DO. Painting is a joy and a blessing in my life.
Sunset by Noreen Yazvac
What inspires me? Nature is inspiring and energizing, and I feel the need to capture it by using vibrant colors and various mediums. My paintings include landscapes, flowers, animals and abstracts.
I like to experiment with all mediums, sometimes mixing them together…and I am not a “purist” by any means…I mix watercolor with acrylic and add acrylics to my alcohol inks! I add gesso to my watercolors, and spray alcohol into my acrylics! I guess I use whatever it takes to get to whatever it is I am searching to find in a particular piece.
If I can create art that expresses what I am feeling and at the same time bring joy to others, then I am fulfilled as an artist.
As a child, art was my hobby; however, my formal education in art began with Florence Hosa, my Boardman High School art teacher. A continued interest in art led me to study painting under the private instruction of artists Celeste Moran, Cherie Mohn, Christopher Leeper, and Tom Antonishak. In May 2006 I graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Art degree in art history and a minor in studio art from Youngstown State University.
I work at YSU as an administrative assistant in the Center for Student Progress. My office career is very rewarding to me; however, I need to feel that connection with art and nature which helps to balance and give my life meaning and spirituality.
Highlights, Awards & Exhibitions
- Butler Institute of American Art, Annual Area Artist Exhibit, jurored show
- Celebrate Poland Art Show
- Co-President of the Mahoning Valley Watercolor Society
- Artist of the Mahoning Commons Spring and Holiday shows
- Davis Center Weller Gallery, Fellows Riverside Gardens, Mill Creek Park
- YWCA 27th Annual Women Artists: A Celebration! Art Show
- Canfield Fall Market
- Canfield Fair Fine Art Show, Honorable Mention Award/Juror’s Pick Award
- Boardman Township Hall, Artist of the Month, February 2008
- Butler Institute of American Art Fine Art & Craft Christmas Show
- Lanterman’s Mill Gift Shop, Youngstown, OH
- Gallery on the Glen, Youngstown, Ohio
- Boardman Frame House Gallery, Youngstown, Ohio
