Originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, I have always felt a deep connection to art. My early career began as Marketing Director at the Museum of the History of St. Petersburg (Peter & Paul Fortress). I collaborated with renowned Russian artists and held senior marketing roles.
Extensive travel across the globe enriched my understanding of diverse cultures and artistic traditions. It deepened my appreciation for the beauty found in everyday life.
For years, I dreamed of working with clay. That dream came true when I enrolled in my first ceramics course at the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. I was instantly captivated. Clay quickly became a vital part of my life. It inspired me to transition from a successful corporate career to fully embrace this creative path. I completed intensive training in ceramic disciplines, including all advanced courses offered at the university’s fine arts program.
I also pursued education in metalsmithing and Precious Metal Clay. Today, I run a thriving jewelry business, designing unique pieces for the modern woman who seeks individuality. My collections range from organic, earthy styles to elegant, sophisticated designs—each piece handcrafted with care and intention.
Above all, wildlife photography is another passion of mine. I began photographing the natural world 10 years ago and will never turn back. I love capturing images of animals in their natural habitats and have an intimate approach to wildlife.
After relocating to San Diego, I became a member of Clay Artists of San Diego, Oceanside Museum of Art and Art Alliance, Escondido Art Partnership, and Fallbrook Art Center. My work has been featured in fine art catalogues like APERO and online galleries like Saatchi Art. In addition, I exhibited my work in numerous solo and group shows, and honored with multiple awards. Take a look at the art shows schedule here.
Artist Statement
My deepest inspiration comes from nature, its resilience, its quiet transformations, and the way time and weather shape trees, rocks, seedpods, and marine life. The organic forms speak to me, stirring a sense of wonder and grounding me in the present. Nature connects me to the earth, fuels my energy, and invites exploration.
Clay is my medium of choice because of its tactile immediacy and infinite possibilities. I’m fascinated by the process of turning a flat surface into a sculptural form—layering color, texture, and movement to create pieces that feel alive. My work often integrates natural materials such as wood, stone, sand, and metal, creating dynamic compositions that echo the raw beauty of the natural world. Each piece is a meditation on transformation, how materials evolve, how forms emerge, and how art can reflect the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability.
As a wild life photographer Elena uses her skills to document wildlife for conservation and artistic purposes. Her goal is to promote understanding about the Earth through the images that convey a passion for nature and concern about the state of our planet.