How do Scotland and Ukraine differ?

Ukraine is a beautiful country but I lived in the city. I was painting and had many successful shows but I don’t think I really had a style. You can say my work was all over the place. Then I moved to Scotland and I was simply blown away by the coast and these amazing sunsets. There were huge contrasts in nature and weather – often in the same day or even hour – that I simply hadn’t experienced before. I knew that’s where I wanted to concentrate. I don’t want to be too romantic but the Scottish landscape is my inspiration and set my artistic direction.

Of course, Ukraine is never far from my mind. I still have close family and friends there, including my dad. The situation is very difficult. Currently, they have no electricity and running water. Attacks by drones are very common. It’s heartbreaking but the people around me here have been hugely supportive and understanding.

The colours you use are bright and vibrant. Why is that?

The Scottish weather can be, let’s say, dour and wet. When you’re working in the hills or walking along the coastline, you’ll need an umbrella more often than sun screen! But, even in the heaviest clouds, there’s drama and power. By using bright colours, I can more closely capture what I’m feeling at the time. It’s often the case that the dramatic scenery and contrasting light reflects my emotions and I can transfer that to my work. Anyway, a little rain never hurt anyone.

Is your work becoming more abstract?

Yes. It’s really my husband’s fault. Originally I only worked in oils but I love putting textures in my work but, to be honest, I didn’t really have the patience to wait for the paint to dry! My husband suggested I experiment with acrylics. It was a revelation. It was much easier to create the textures I wanted, which means that I can be much more abstract in my landscapes and seascapes. It has added a new dimension of drama, energy and movement to my work.

Who is Wolfy and what’s his connection to abstract art?

Wolfy is our Japanese Akita who sadly passed from cancer. My husband had the chance to renovate an old nightclub in Galashiels and he jumped at it. Well, it’s not really a nightclub. We’re creating a community space where there’ll be things like kiddies’ events, flamenco dancing, concerts – even a bit of bingo and Karaoke! It just seemed right to name the place after Wolfie.

What’s this got to do with abstract art? Well, I’ll be creating the artworks for the venue and it’s going to be much more in an abstract style. And, my husband has really got into the work I’m doing now and wants to incorporate my use of colours and textures into the way they decorate the building itself. You could say we’re going to be Galashiel’s first avante-garde nightclub. You’re right, we must be mad!

What does the future hold?

The near future is the Edinburgh Macmillan Art Show and I’m incredibly excited to be part of it this year. I think that, over the years, the show has become an important part of the cultural life of the city. Edinburgh is very cultural anyway. People like to meet up and go to galleries and shows. It’s great that you can combine this with helping charities. After all, there are very few of us that haven’t had their lives directly affected by cancer.

Yulia Allan is one of over 160 Scottish artists on display at this year’s Edinburgh Macmillan Art Show taking place from 10am-4pm November 22-23 at the Cornerstone Centre in central Edinburgh. An online store will also operate during and after the show. You can find more information here.