Collection: Sabina Qaja
Born in Korça in 1984, Sabina is a figurative painter whose journey began in this Albanian city renowned for its tradition and culture. Drawing inspiration from her surroundings, Sabina's artistic development has been profoundly influenced by leading figures of realist art. Having practiced traditional icon painting for many years in Greece, her introspective exploration through philosophy has transformed her approach to life and her relationship with art. She finds it fascinating to capture the essence of a person through sensitive and authentic figurative observation.
While seeking to learn classical drawing and painting methods in various workshops in Thessaloniki and Athens, Sabina began searching for a mentor to guide her toward a deeper dialogue with figurative representation, using techniques such as drawing, painting, and sculpture. This path toward academic realism led her to the Académie des Arts in Paris. This hands-on approach, immersing herself in historical references such as the museums of Paris, combined with a community committed to mutual inspiration, ensured her academic growth. After Paris, she studied sculpture at the Accademia di Arti in Florence. This ability to share, exchange, and evolve inspired her to join her colleagues in a positive movement toward artistic progress.
One of her most widely read poems, Cavafy's Ithaka , eloquently expresses her quest to become both a realistic painter and sculptor, as well as the journey required to achieve this.