Evgeniya Strygina Wins London’s Zima Art Prize, Supporting Emerging Russian-Speaking Artists
Evgeniya Strygina has been awarded the prestigious Zima Art Prize, a new initiative designed to support emerging Russian-speaking artists in the UK. This project seeks to showcase new talent and provide artists with opportunities to build their careers and reach new audiences on the British art scene. Each winner is given a platform to present their work, alongside financial support and promotional opportunities.
Evgeniya Strygina’s Artistic Journey
Evgeniya Strygina is a photographer and visual artist whose passion for art began in childhood, inspired by her family’s involvement in photography. With a background in journalism, she developed a unique style that merges narrative and visual storytelling. Her work explores themes of emptiness and depth, using landscapes and architectural forms to convey a sense of stillness that invites viewers to reflect.
After moving to the UK, Evgeniya delved into the themes of migration and the notion of ‘home,’ creating both documentary and symbolic images that capture the emotions of adaptation and self-discovery in a new environment. Her projects — from desolate landscapes to urban scenes — reveal a profound sense of space and hidden emotions within each frame.
About the Zima Club and the Zima Art Prize
The Zima Art Prize, established by Zima Club in 2024, was created to support Russian-speaking artists residing in the UK. The project aims to bring fresh talent to light by helping artists connect with a broader audience and providing financial assistance. Each month, an expert jury selects one winner, offering them a cash prize, an interview feature, an online exhibition on the Zima website, and the opportunity to showcase one piece in the ZIMA restaurant, where it is available for purchase.
The jury consists of respected figures in the art world, including:
- Katya Granova — contemporary artist and founder of the ‘Philosopher’s Steamboat’ initiative.
- Pavel Otdelnov — Russian artist and laureate of several prestigious awards.
- Igor Tsukanov — Russian avant-garde collector and philanthropist.
- Marina Shtager — gallerist and curator, co-founder of Shtager&Schc Gallery.
- Ruth Addison — art historian and translator.
- Mark Sanders — art dealer and critic known for his projects at Saatchi Gallery.
How to Apply
To participate, artists must submit five images of their works, a brief biography, and an artist statement in English by the 24th of each month to artist@zimamagazine.com. Applications are open to all artists, regardless of career stage or medium, as long as they are Russian-speaking and based in the UK.
The Zima Art Prize is more than just a competition; it’s a step towards building a community where Russian-speaking artists can find support and recognition as they develop their work and engage with new audiences.
Photos: courtesy of Zima Club
Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.