Artist Bio
Olivia Pestova is a New York City-based photographer drawn to photographing what she sees as poetic on the streets of her city and beyond.
Born into a creative family, her formative years were spent with exposure to photography, art, and the process of creating — her uncle, one of her primary caretakers, was a black and white photographer, her father was an architect and her grandmother worked in a museum of fine arts.
Time spent with them inspired many facets of Pestova’s life and her journey as a photographer. Taught and mentored by photographers and artists through continuing education classes and workshops in New York, where she has spent most of her life, Pestova maintains a daily studio practice. Her work has been exhibited, published, and is held in private collections.
Artist Statement
For me, photography is a deeply introspective process and a way to engage with the world. Sentimental photographs that evolve are more a mirror than a window, exposing personal sensibility. I am drawn to documenting life’s transient moments and what I see as poetic and soft. My focus is the theme of our connection to localities, each other, and to ourselves.
While working on projects, I often revisit the same areas to gain a better understanding, witness changes, and uncover the dots in the stories. Early morning is my favorite time to photograph — gentle light and quietude profoundly impact me and help me notice. A common element illuminated in my photography is a reflection from glass, revealing the beauty of the unseen, inviting a pause, a consideration. My photographs guide me. They prompt me to take the time to be still, sit with the uncomfortable, breathe, feel, and take it slow.
My practice is daily. Learning doesn’t stop. It inspires.