Today we’d like to introduce you to Olga.
Hi Olga, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After moving to the United States three years ago, my husband and I decided to open an art school for children and adults. With no prior experience running a business like this, we started from scratch and handled everything ourselves: developing the concept, assembling the furniture, selecting materials for lessons, building the website, launching advertising, teaching classes, and more. Now, just over two years since opening, our school has grown to more than 200 regular students ranging in age from 3 to 80, a team of four teachers, and five successful exhibitions of our students’ work.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, it hasn’t been an easy journey. Moving to another country is always a profound challenge—you truly begin life anew. Everything is different, everything unfamiliar. You have to learn the language and figure out how to build a business in a completely new environment. There’s no built-in support system, no relatives or friends nearby to offer advice or guide you toward the right decisions.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I began my career as a watercolor artist. After graduating from one of Russia’s largest art academies, I collaborated with a gallery and took part in international exhibitions and competitions. After moving to the United States and opening my own art school, I expanded my work to include teaching drawing and painting to both children and adults. I am also invited to lead workshops and demonstration classes for professional art communities across Miami and throughout Florida, as well as to serve as a judge for art competitions. At the same time, I continue to participate successfully in local and international watercolor exhibitions and competitions.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
My main goal is to continue developing our art school and inspiring as many people as possible to join our classes. Our young students achieve outstanding results in drawing and painting and are successfully admitted to specialized art schools such as DASH and MAC. Adult students not only strengthen their artistic skills but also discover a welcoming community of like-minded people who share their passion for art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nikigallery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikigalleryus/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NIKIGalleryUS
Image Credits
Jauhien Ihonkin
