Nadya was born in Moscow, Russia, grew up in Atlantic Canada, and now calls warm and sunny Brisbane her home. As a professional wildlife artist, she is an exhibiting member of the Queensland Wildlife Artists Society.
Animal inspiration was easy to find from an early age, growing up surrounded by rescued animals - from domestic cats and dogs, to exotic creatures such as a pair of rescued Pangolins. Nadya's childhood dream was to become a Biologist like her mother, but her interest developed not just in the scientific study of nature, but in the artistic and creative side. She completed her studies focusing on illustration and photography at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD University) in Canada, before moving to Australia.
Nadya is passionate about wildlife from all corners of the world, and a percentage of all artworks and prints sold goes to wildlife conservation charities. (in particular, the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, Wildlife Warriors wildlife hospital, and The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya)
She enjoys creating the intricate details of feathers and fur using watercolours, pen and ink, and scratchboard – resulting in delicate and detailed artworks. Painting from her own reference photographs allows her to study an animal from all angles, but also to portray the personality of an animal, their quirks and expressions. The unique fauna and flora of Australia constantly presents her with the joy of new creative challenges.