Meet Daria Shugaieva, a Ukrainian artist who also designs fashion

I recently saw Daria’s paintings at Les Couleurs art gallery in downtown Miami. When I found out she was from my hometown of Odessa, Ukraine. I wanted to meet her and discuss her art and her passion for fashion.
How did you end up in South Florida?
We came to South Florida for vacation, and once war broke out on February 24, 2022, we never returned. Odessa is a beautiful city; I miss it every day.

(Courtesy)

You are a typical mix of Greek, Ukrainian and Russian. Tell me a little about that.
My mother is Greek, Odessa had a large Greek community and we were proudly part of it. Even though I have been to Greece several times, I am still waiting to have my creative experience there, which I am sure I will at some point. The light in Greece is incredible, I can’t wait to paint there.
What is your diploma?
English language but I was constantly drawing portraits, collages and fashion illustrations. All my feelings, fears and uncertainties found a place of peace on paper and easel.
Tell me about your fashion experience?
I was already the mother of two young children when I had the idea for a Ukrainian brand called Aphrodite. French fabrics and the character of a Greek goddess. Just as the brand took off after a Ukrainian supermodel, Alla Kostromichova wore one of my outfits to New York Fashion Week in February 2020. But unfortunately, COVID happened. The clothes and fabrics were in a warehouse near Odessa airport when a Russian missile hit them. All my work burned. But I’m still young, I hope to rebuild the company one day.

(Courtesy)

Who are your favorite designers?
I am inspired by the genius of John Galliano. He is an artist who created more than a dress. His shows brought fashion into a new era of creativity and performance. Another great genius is Alexander McQueen who was not only an extraordinary designer but also an artist with a fascinating sense of style, creativity and passion.

(Courtesy)

What is your inspiration for art? Which painters? What style do you consider your art to be? be?
It comes from nowhere and everywhere. I’m not looking for it. It can be an ordinary day and I see my reflection in a cup of coffee or I read a historical article about the history of Ukraine or maybe my memories. The painters who inspire me are especially Salvador Dali, Yayoi Kusama and Frida Kahlo, his spirit and his passion for life are already an art in themselves. I would say that my style is eclectic since I combine several techniques: contemporary and academic art, use of symbols, and sometimes folkloric motifs.
All photos feature Daria’s fashion brand Aphrodite.
Follow her on Instagram: @Shugadaria.usa
Presented by APG