Myth, Memory and Inner Worlds in the Paintings of Jenia Chernysh

Chicago-based artist Jenia Chernysh paints figures caught between reality and imagination. Children, animals and symbolic objects appear in dreamlike settings where everyday gestures sit alongside mythic cues. Her scenes often hinge on a single, charged moment, like a child spewing flowers, another dancing with butterflies as fire rages behind her, or a girl in a wolf mask calmly standing beside a sheep in an open field.

Her compositions balance softness with tension. Muted skies, grassy horizons and clouded backdrops create a sense of space, while carefully placed details anchor each scene emotionally. Color is handled with restraint and intent, shifting between gentle pastels and deeper, nocturnal tones to shape the mood of each piece.

Originally from Ukraine and now based in Chicago, Jenia uses painting as a way to translate personal memories into images that feel open and relatable. You can discover more of her work on her website and Instagram.

More art on the grid Jenia Chernysh’s website