Ioana Pioaru

I am a Romanian-British artist and illustrator with a passion for traditional ink drawing.

I have received a BA (2008) and MA (2010) from the National University of Arts
in Bucharest, where I studied fine art drawing. In 2021 I was awarded a PhD degree
by the University of Chester for my research into the concept of artistic maximalism.

I feel inspired by the interplay of old and new which I see manifested everywhere around us, but chiefly in architecture. I depict with equal care and attention charming details of traditional architecture, as well as contemporary interventions.
In my creative process, I enjoy the challenge of capturing transient light and shadow through ink drawing – my favourite medium. I like seeing all the thousands of ink lines and dots adding up and creating different patterns, shapes, and values, and at the end creating emotions. Focusing on the depiction of light and small details that often go unnoticed helps me create an atmosphere of nostalgia that many people relate to immediately.
I deliberately choose an “old school” style of drawing characterised by utmost precision and clarity. This, together with careful framing, lighting, and other display devices, establishes a space of tranquillity, where my work can speak to the viewer in a familiar language.