Ukrainian artist paints dazzling Athlone mural
By Rebekah O'Reilly
When Ukrainian artist Alina Vorobiova first moved to Ballymahon three years ago, she never anticipated that she would become something of a local star.
"I'm actually an introvert, so it took time to get used to," Alina said, noting that people recognise her in the shops around Ballymahon.
"It's different in a small town. People say 'you're the girl who did this painting', I've become like a local celebrity!"
The multi-media artist had been working as an oil painter, as well as working alongside a gaming company to design video game characters, while living in her home country.
While she studied art in school and at university level, it wasn't until Alina moved to Ireland that she developed her love of murals.
"My first mural was in Skelly's Bar in Ballymahon. I did it voluntarily, as a thank you for all of the help they gave me," Alina shared. "People loved it! I would always get compliments from the bar staff, and from the customers."
From there her work took off, with Alina completing between 10 and 15 murals in recent months, one of which was a stunning Connaught Street mural at Connaught Gardens.
The piece was created in collaboration with the Connaught Street Traders and Environs group.
"It was a really great experience. It was a new challenge for me, in a new environment, and it was a much bigger project than before. I like to challenge myself. I sketched three ideas, and the Connaught Street group chose one. We then worked together to make some changes, like which colours to use."
The larger canvas wasn't the only challenge for introvert Alina, as she garnered a lot of attention from passing locals.
"I'm not really a very social person, so it was hard," Alina said, adding that she wasn't used to people watching her as she worked.
"It was positive overall, because it shows that people love my art, so I can't complain about that!"
The Ukrainian artist now hopes to continue expanding her portfolio, casting her net to a wider community of art lovers. "As an artist, I'm happy to work with a diverse range of materials. I like a challenge, and I'm looking forward to working on more projects in the future." Alina extended her thanks to Skelly's Bar, the Connaught Street Traders and Environs group, Ballymahon Bridgeways Community Group, and all those who have supported her to date.
"I'm really grateful for these opportunities," she added.
To follow her latest projects, search for @Reyj_Murals on Instagram. For inquiries, she can be reached by email at Keric5667@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at 087 0622918.