Friday, November 15, 2013
The ‘My North Yorkshire’ interview with Hannah Ostapjuk
There’s something in the air in North Yorkshire. One breath is all that is needed to feel at ease, according to Hannah Ostapjuk, a North Yorkshire based autobiographical figurative oil painter. Hannah focuses on colour and chiaroscuro lighting effects combined with techniques employed by the old and modern masters.
The county provides her with both a relaxing and a stimulating environment.
Here, she explains what’s so inspiring.
What does the county of North Yorkshire mean to you?
It’s home. That is the only way I can think of summing it up. You’ve got gorgeous landscapes, beautiful cities with great shopping. I like doing things on the spur of the moment and you don’t have to go too far within North Yorkshire to get away from everyday life and relax.
Where is your favourite place and why?
I have a few, is that allowed? It’s too hard to choose one. My favourite places in North Yorkshire tend to be those of great beauty but are also much loved because of the experiences I have had there and who I have been with.
Robin Hood’s Bay, located within the North York Moors National Park, is a lovely quiet fishing village and bay and is one of my favourite places because it was one of the first adventures my daughter and I shared. Stepping rock to rock with her strapped to me in her sling, following my Mum and sisters along a raised area of the beach – the tide came in suddenly (my Dad had warned us) and I completely ruined my shoes but it was such a fun afternoon. Good exercise too.
East Gill waterfall near Keld is another place I have fond memories of. It’s a great drive and there are a few other waterfalls on the way. At each one we’d (my sisters and I) be asking, “Is this it, are we there yet?”
Duncombe Park Estate, Helmsley, was another great day out. My daughter really enjoyed paddling in the river and a visit to Auntie Anne’s Castlegate bakery was the cherry on top of the cake. Lastly, I absolutely love the city of York, so many great days (and nights) out there with my fiancé and daughter or family and friends, whether planned or last minute there’s always something to do.
What role does the county play in your work?
Apart from keeping me in a relaxed and inspired state of mind, it plays a huge role in my work at the moment. I am currently working on a portrait of the Vice Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Colonel Edward York TD DL. This painting is not just about achieving a likeness to Edward York but also portraying his love of the North Yorkshire countryside and its wild life. When working on the landscape background of the portrait I will be spending a lot of time in North Yorkshire’s countryside, particularly the village of Long Marston and surrounding fields, noting cloud formations, lighting effects and colours, and getting a feel for how to represent it all.
And what role does it play in your relaxation?
It is hard to describe really, there’s something about the air in North Yorkshire, one breath and I feel completely at ease. Whether on a walk through our village with my daughter or a visit to the beach at Whitby or Scarborough – whatever the weather I enjoy the atmosphere.
What slogan would you use to market the county?
From romantic rolling landscape to lively market towns and beautiful historic cities, North Yorkshire certainly has something for everyone. It’s one of those places you just have to visit.
If you were a castaway and allowed one item from North Yorkshire on your desert island, what would it be?
If it can’t be a family member, then it would have to be some Auntie Anne’s flapjack or chocolate tiffin.
To read the full interview on Beautiful North Yorkshire’s website please click here.
