Today we’d like to introduce you to Palina.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
“My Life in Mindfulness and Art”
My personal journey in consciousness began in college days, while I was studying Costume & Fashion Design in Moscow. I realized that the meditations helped me with focus on theoretical studies and facilitated the opening of my creative side when I was in a state of stagnation. On the other hand, my emotional state improved every time I practiced mindfulness on a regular basis and it significantly helped me deal with the stress of the pressure of the intensive college program. I managed to find a perfect inner emocional and mental balance and with the ease graduated with honors, winning several design competitions and got a dream internship and very soon after, a job offer above my expectations – a position as a costume designer at Mosfilm, the largest film company in Russia. At the age of only 21 I have already achieved important goals in my professional life.
The practices of mindfull creation led me to study at the best design school in the world – St. Martins College of Art and Design in London, obtain a new professional internship and design assistant position in a prestigious fashion house in the heart of the Mecca of fashion – London. At 23 years old, another dream leap achieved and a broader vision of life openned up. I felt fulfilled, happy and empowered at such a young age. Through mindful approach, I learned two new foreign languages, Italian took me only 3 months and Spanish in 6.
Later I continued creating my personal life, happily married, becoming a mother, opening my first company, Pantyushina atelier in a paradisiacal place on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta.
Reaching the end of the list of professional drems before the age of 30, I faced a personal crisis, accompanied by the reevaluation of important values in life. As a result, I left my profession as a fashion designer and dedicated myself to the cultural development of a young city – Cancun. The need to do something useful with my life, helping the community, the country where I lived, where I felt at home, filled my heart and gave me new meaning. Every morning in this period of my life I began with meditations, visualizations, more than ever, inspiring myself and feeling alive and happy. Starting from scratch at age 31, I immersed myself in the world of non-profit organizations in the cultural field. I studied Sustainability for NGOs at the Carribean University and Startegic Administration at ANAHUAC University, doing social work with great satisfaction and love, finally heading the Board of Trustees for Culture and the Arts of Cancun. Once again I achieved professional and self-realization while becoming a mother for the second time.
My second breakthrough happened right before COVID arrived, in 2019. At the time, I was working as the Art Director for a corporate chain of luxury hotels with an artistic concept. I was fully immersed in my passion for supporting local artists by creating opportunities to connect with the tourism industry. Through a nonstop series of festivals, exhibitions, happenings, concerts, and shows, I aimed to showcase authentic Mexican culture to international tourists. I was burning with passion for what I was doing because it had meaning—not only for me but also for the community and the image of Mexico that I was promoting. I cherished this country deeply.
However, I became trapped in an addiction to my work. Even when I was with my family, I found it nearly impossible to relax. Weekends and vacations felt like battles to put down my phone and detach from the demands of my job. The burnout began to take a toll: my immune system weakened, I was constantly falling ill, my sleep patterns were disrupted, and I experienced frequent tachycardia.
Realizing I needed a change, I began attending art sessions with my older son on Saturdays. Together, we explored new mediums under the guidance of a talented local artist. These moments brought me back to myself—they were my sanctuary. I found peace and flow in our sessions, much like the fluid art we were creating. Encouraged, I experimented with larger canvases, and soon, I felt confident enough to share my work with friends.
Then, something wonderful happened. I received an invitation to exhibit my art as a solo artist in Puerto Vallarta. Around the same time, another milestone occurred: I sold my first artwork to a collector for over $1,000 USD. These two moments were independent of each other but equally significant—they confirmed that I was on the right path and gave me the confidence to pursue a new direction in life.
I made the bold decision to leave my high-level corporate job and fully embrace life as an artist. I painted every day, preparing for my exhibition. For inspiration, I traveled to Art Basel and other art fairs in Miami, and I built my first portfolio website. I transitioned from being an employee to offering my decorative art skills and expertise to hotels as an independent artist.
By the time COVID hit, I had significant art orders and continued to paint while leveraging digital marketing to promote my work. In 2020–2021, I participated in three international art fairs—Monte Carlo, Paris, and Madrid—and was represented by galleries in Mexico, the USA, and Spain. Over that period, I sold more than 20 artworks.
I also launched a swimwear line featuring my watercolor prints, which performed well in online sales and boutique orders in Cancun and Naples. This project brought my family to this charming, quiet, and clean town, where we relocated in the summer of 2021 with our two kids and two adopted cats. We have never regretted the move.
Three years later, I’m still painting, writing, and illustrating children’s books. I’ve published art books, held exhibitions, and expanded my market through new gallery partnerships both locally and beyond. My latest achievement includes representation by a gallery in Atlanta and the creation of two new art series, Living Souls and Multitude, both rooted in the concept of mindful painting.
In addition to my artistic pursuits, I began teaching art three years ago, serving the local community by instructing over 100 children and organizing annual kids’ art exhibitions at the Naples Children’s Museum. My journey has been transformative, and I feel immensely grateful for how it has unfolded.
Now, at 42 years old, with a wealth of experience across multiple fields, I dedicate myself to living a quiet life in Naples, Florida, with my family, working only a few hours a day, generating enough income to enjoy every moment with my growing up children, painting, organizing cultural events and teaching art and the wonders of conscious life. I am constantly creating new projects because I know exactly the purposes of my life, my tasks and my spiritual duties. I am here to share, communicate and teach people the easiest way to be happier and live a full life through art and mindfulness.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life has been anything but smooth, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The challenges I’ve faced have shaped who I am today—a person fluent in four languages and constantly learning another four to five. Each struggle has been a stepping stone, molding me into a resilient, adaptable individual with a global perspective.
Since childhood, I knew I wouldn’t spend my entire life in Russia. At 11, I began preparing for an exciting expat future by learning English—my first foreign language and, by far, the hardest. My first experience abroad as a foreigner was in the U.S. on a summer exchange program. I struggled with a lack of self-confidence due to weak English skills, forcing myself to speak to strangers and limiting my use of my native tongue for three months. I worked two full-time jobs, speaking only English while learning Spanish for free on the side.
I remember coming home after 16-hour shifts, crying—not from physical exhaustion, but from the emotional strain of not being able to communicate freely or express my thoughts and feelings. The first month was brutal, but by the last two months, I thrived. I made friends, fell in love, and earned good money in the summer of 2001. That transformative experience taught me resilience and confidence, lessons I carry with me to this day.
My second major challenge came in London, where I pursued my dream of studying at St. Martins and working as a designer. However, a lack of proper documentation prior to my trip held me back. While I received job offers, employers were hesitant to sponsor work permits, forcing me into lower-paying roles. Despite this, I achieved my goal of studying and working in the heart of London, though I knew I could have done more if I’d had an EU passport.
The third significant challenge was in Mexico, where I decided to settle after my first son was born and start my first business as a fashion designer. With a decent grasp of Spanish, a love for the people, and an understanding of the administrative system, I jumped into entrepreneurship at 25 as a recently divorced mother of a 17-month-old baby. The challenges were immense—a lack of business administration knowledge and the city’s vulnerable economy.
I grew my business from self-employment to employing six people, but it struggled to break out of the “rat wheel” of just making enough to sustain itself and support my small family. After five years, I left the business in the hands of my well-trained assistant and moved on, determined to keep learning through experience.
Returning to the U.S. in 2012 marked another turning point. After a year of gaining new skills and perspectives, I went back to Mexico and faced a fourth challenge—starting over in a completely different field. I transitioned into cultural development within nonprofit organizations in Cancun. It took a year of studying for a local university diploma and volunteering, but I eventually secured a dream job. The salary was modest—just $500 a month—but I managed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle by living simply and creatively. Despite the financial limitations, the role gave me profound satisfaction and helped me grow as a person.
My fifth challenge came here in Naples, Florida. Adjusting to the local artistic community and finding my place in its ecosystem was not easy. The cultural differences between Mexico and the U.S. were stark, and it took time to understand the dynamics of the art scene and align my mindset with it. I encountered incredible people who worked with mutual trust and empathy, but I also faced moments of disillusionment—particularly with gallery owners who viewed art solely as a commodity.
As someone who thrives on collaboration and helping others without expecting anything in return, I found this materialistic approach disheartening. Yet, I stayed focused on building relationships with people who share my values. Together, we’ve created impactful work for the community, and I remain open to all forms of collaboration.
These experiences have not only taught me resilience but have also shown me the profound joy of connecting with others. Every struggle has been a lesson, and I wouldn’t change a single one.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an artist, storyteller, and cultural organizer with a passion for creating meaningful experiences through art. My work spans various mediums, including painting, poetry, and teaching. I specialize in blending realism with whimsical, dreamlike qualities in my art, often using vibrant colors and expressive, storybook charm to evoke emotional resonance. My paintings explore themes of freedom, harmony, and the depth of human connection, while my poetry reflects grace, resilience, and gratitude.
One of my most rewarding endeavors is teaching art. I believe in the transformative power of creativity and love guiding others, especially children, to discover their own artistic voices. My workshops go beyond teaching technique—they’re designed to inspire participants to connect deeply with themselves and their communities. Projects like “The Branch of Gratitude,” where we combine art with personal reflection, and creative events like “Creative Canvas & Carry” and “Artful Sips,” allow people to merge self-expression with celebration.
I’m proud of my ability to integrate art into various aspects of life—be it through hosting exhibitions, publishing a children’s book, or collaborating with young artists on special projects. For instance, I’ve worked with my students to turn their art into practical creations like low-content books and journals, helping them see the potential of their creativity.
What truly sets me apart is my multicultural journey. Having lived in Russia, the U.S., Mexico, and the U.K., I’ve developed a unique perspective that informs my work. I’m fluent in four languages and am constantly learning others, which allows me to connect with people across cultures and share diverse stories. This global experience has shaped my art and teaching philosophy—I strive to create work that resonates universally while celebrating individuality.
I’m also driven by a deep sense of empathy and collaboration. Whether it’s helping fellow artists navigate the art world or creating inclusive spaces for creative expression, I aim to foster a sense of community. My approach to art is rooted in storytelling—whether I’m painting a piece inspired by personal memories, like “Us Now,” or crafting a poem that captures fleeting emotions, I always aim to connect on a human level.
Above all, I’m proud of how I’ve embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow. From starting over in different countries to building a life and career that align with my values, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to my vision. My art, and the experiences I create through it, reflect this journey of transformation and connection.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I owe so much of my journey to the incredible people who have supported and inspired me along the way. My husband is undoubtedly my biggest fan and emotional pillar. Over the past 10 years, we’ve navigated meaningful challenges and transformations together while raising our boys. His unwavering belief in me has been a foundation for everything I’ve accomplished.
My older son, Yan, has been a profound source of inspiration. His inner wisdom and raw authenticity, often expressed in impactful words, have opened horizons for me, sparking new aspirations. He was the one who uttered the phrase that pushed me to become a full-time artist. His influence inspired me to open a Fab Lab for kids in Cancun and, ultimately, to settle in Mexico. I’ve painted and written about our journey together and know it’s a story that will continue to evolve.
My mother has always been my rock, believing in me through every phase of life.
I’m also deeply grateful for my friends in Puerto Vallarta—Xochi, Kass, and Rodrigo—who supported me through life and business challenges, playing pivotal roles in my personal and professional growth.
My first art collector, Bob, deserves special mention. He purchased over a dozen of my artworks early on, not only giving me financial support but also instilling a deep belief in my talent.
Gallery One in Naples took a chance on me, becoming the first gallery to represent my work and selling many of my pieces with ease. Pamela, the owner of Larimart Gallery, organized my first solo exhibition in the U.S., showcasing professionalism and trust in my art. Similarly, Robert, the owner of Robert Kent Gallery in Atlanta, has been an incredible advocate, promoting my work with passion and care.
Finally, I have endless gratitude for the parents who bring their children to my classes every week and for my little artists, who allow me to guide them into the enchanting world of art. Their curiosity and creativity keep my passion alive.
Every single one of these individuals has left a mark on my journey, and I’m profoundly thankful for their roles in shaping the artist and person I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.palinastudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palinastudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100029115717286
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/palina-pantyushina-de-chavez-96956a27/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/palinastudio
