About
Elena Kachalova is a Ukrainian figurative artist based in Dubai, working in oil painting on canvas and graphite drawing on paper. Her practice brings together academic drawing, classical painting techniques and contemporary subjects.
Her work ranges from portraits and anatomical studies to symbolic and surreal compositions. She pays close attention to the human figure, expressive gestures, texture and the relationship between light and form. Carefully observed detail often meets unexpected imagery, exploring human emotion and the tension between beauty and unease. Animal portraits form another part of her practice.
Her exhibition history includes solo exhibitions in Donetsk, participation in exhibitions in Kyiv, independent exhibitions in Europe, and exhibitions in Russia and Dubai. In Dubai, she participated in the national exhibition dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates, World Art Dubai in 2024, and other exhibitions. She also won the City’s Best Artist Competition, a two-stage contest in Donetsk. Original paintings and drawings are available from Dubai. For available works, prices, commissions and delivery enquiries, contact her through Artblr or visit kachalova.art.
Artist statement
My work begins with faces, bodies and the emotions they carry. I use oil painting and graphite drawing to explore the beauty of the human form, the individuality of a gaze and the tension within a gesture.
Classical observation gives my figures structure, while symbolic and surreal elements open the image to different interpretations. I am drawn to the point where beauty meets unease, tenderness meets strength, and a familiar subject becomes unexpected. I want each work to leave room for the viewer’s own response.
Elena Kachalova
