Hi! I’m ANNASTASHA (pronounced, Anna-stasha, like natasha). I was born and raised in southern California, graduated with a BFA from BYU Utah in 2010. 

I currently reside in Fussa, Japan (greater Tokyo area). Life has been a whirlwind since graduation, but that hasn't stopped my passion for painting and enjoying the uniqueness of each place I live. I am a mother to three sons, a thyroid cancer survivor, and military spouse.

Creating art has been a saving grace through the challenges and change in my life. I love to travel, especially to see new landscape and art. I love nature. I love colors. I love to wander museums and savor the art. And I absolutely love connecting with people through art and meeting other creatives. 

You can stay up to date on my latest projects, shows, and available work by joining my newsletter!

—Annastasha 

Questions and Inquires:  contact@ANNASTASHA.com

Artist Statement

 

Sakura Collection—

Ichi-go Ichi-e 一期一会

This Japanese phrase translates as, “one time, one meeting” and dates back to the 16th century. Though life was much slower then—than it is now—it is intriguing that humans were thinking of this idea and talking about it so long ago.

Having lived in Japan for over 3 years, I learned about the phrase from a tea ceremony in Kyoto. Experiencing how the blooms of different plants and trees are celebrated throughout the seasons here, has established this beautiful concept in me.

Viewing and cherishing the Sakura season—Cherry Blossoms— with family and friends, is a highlight in Japan. Sakura blooms symbolize the very idea of embracing the present, the fragility of life, and marking new beginnings.

This collection shares and honors this remarkable event—Sakura season— as a reminder to savor the present and celebrate new beginnings.

Wildfire Collections—

I witnessed wildfires in California throughout my childhood and saw miles of smoke clouds and charred earth. But after these fires I observed nature's resilience and regeneration.

Throughout life we each experience unimaginable challenges. But with these hardships, we learn and discover that we are RESILIENT. We can progress and change with the difficulties life brings.

These wildfire paintings are symbolic of life challenges and finding courage and hope in facing our personal disasters. We need challenges—just like all things in nature—to change and grow. We can choose to find meaning and transformational beauty in our life experiences.