Today we’d like to introduce you to Marina Yiannos.
Marina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Marina Yiannos, I own Marina Y Art, and I’m an artist based right outside of Ocean City, NJ. I graduated in 2024 from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor’s degree in Art Therapy. Art has been a main focus of my life since I was a child, and finding a way to incorporate it into my daily life has become a priority as I grow up. I currently specialize in realism portraits focusing on wedding paintings, lost loved ones, and pets. I’ve also recently fallen in love with crocheting.
Throughout my own life, I’ve used art as a way to communicate with others, even through the hard times. I’ve learned that in all communities, art provides people with the opportunity to express themselves in ways that words cannot. I felt inspired to create for others after going through my own period of grief from losing a friend. Although it was extremely difficult, I found a sense of peace in honoring lost loved ones through art, as it is a beautiful way to keep their spirit alive. Honoring those who can’t be with us forever has become a main message for Marina Y Art. No matter what the subject of the artwork is, I always believe that my art has the ability to help someone, no matter what personal journey they are on.
Through Marina Y Art, I offer custom commissioned paintings, live event paintings such as weddings, crochet items, and many more creative options. I hope to continue creating, and help as many people as possible find the joy and beauty in art; With more focus on art, communities can be brought together, and the world will grow to be more colorful.
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?
I don’t think that anything in life is truly a smooth road, and if it is, there is probably more that can be done in the situation. I think that all opportunities in life come with obstacles, and it’s pushing through them that makes a situation rewarding.
Art has constantly challenged me, whether it’s my supplies testing my patience, or revising a painting multiple times to get it perfect for a client. For me, my biggest obstacle is trying to remind myself that I’m worthy of creating for others. Many times I find myself questioning my skills, but I know that there’s a reason that I am where I am today, and I just need to trust myself. Although it can be frustrating, especially as an artist, to reach “perfection”, pushing myself to my limits has only allowed me to grow and learn more about myself and my abilities.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Marina Y Art specializes in realism portraits, either painted live at events or commissioned, and crochet wearables. With my portraits, I use acrylic paints, oil paints, or graphite pencils, whichever the customer thinks would best capture what they envisioned. I am most proud of being able to create art that honors loved ones who have passed away. I found during my own struggles with grief, how powerful art could be when it comes to honoring someone so special. From this experience, I have been able to create custom portraits for others, at weddings or other events, and incorporate their lost loved ones into the artwork as well. My biggest message when creating these works of art is that art can keep people and memories alive forever, and honor those we have lost along our journey of life. I would say that what sets me apart from others is my ability to understand and explain how much art has the ability to change perspectives and bring people together. I truly hope that with everything I create, my love and appreciation for the process is evident, and can continue to spread joy unto others.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice for networking or finding a mentor would be to stay as open minded as possible. Even if someone doesn’t consider themselves to be an artist, everyone is capable of creating something that they can be proud of and passionate about. Getting advice and perspectives from people in all fields, will allow yourself to understand how to further your career and experiences with clients. One of my favorite networking opportunities is talking to vendors and clients at markets, as there are always people with different skill sets. Never be afraid to ask a question when you are curious, no matter how silly you may think it would be. My biggest recommendation would be to simply ask as many questions to as many people as possible, and always stay optimistic and open minded, you never know what one person is capable of teaching you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yiannosmarina.wixsite.com/my-site-1
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marina.y.art
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580647542028
- Other: https://marinayart.etsy.com
