Abstract nominee

I am curious and I am bipolar. Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, is a disorder of the mind. Periods of highly elevated moods are replaced with even longer periods of depression. Often we forget that emotions have colours, contrasts and depth, however sometime we need to drop the veil of stigma to see it. Bipolar disorder goes hand in hand with creativity and art is the best remedy there is. Few of our societies strongest building-blocks are secrets, lies and denial. Bipolar disorder, same as other mental disorders has faced denial for decades. It is very important to continue to address this subject and educate the public, even if it is only through art.
Other Realities is a series of work created to emphasise the endless possibilities of human emotions through dimensions of our imagination. With help of various editing softwares I transform the images blurring the lines of photography and painting. This is my visual vocabulary for words and emotions I can never speak out loud, the fears and delight of everyday life, it is my world of other realities.

My name is Veronika and my alter ego is Apóchrosi. I was born in Latvia under Lion’s sign in the year of Tiger with the Moon in Pisces in a family of Russian sailor and Polish midwife. I spent twelve years in a school with emphasis on economics and business. However, I always new I will never continue it as my major, instead I left for Iceland in 2007 and have been a resident since. I studied graphic design at the Icelandic Academy of Arts, after graduating with a BA, I decided not to pursue this career, I thought the industry was impersonal and cold. Instead I worked odd jobs to be able to support my artistic needs. Around 27th year of my life Apóchrosi emerged from the deep taking over all my artistic endeavours. Besides taking pictures I enjoy science fiction books and playing drums in band with my friends. I started painting a little as well, which keeps me away from spending too much time at the computer.
In July I participated in a group exhibition The Intimacy of Banality in Reykjavik, Iceland and it was the first time my work saw the light of day.