Erika Farkas

Oil

Biography

Erika Farkas is a self-taught artist with Transylvanian roots based in Ottawa. Her artistic journey began more than a decade ago with realistic pencil portraits. Over the years, she has expanded her repertoire to include pastel, mixed media, acrylic, and oil paintings, demonstrating a versatile and evolving style.

Erika is known for her passion for portraying the human form, exploring the nuances of movement and emotion through detailed and expressive work. Her latest series of oil paintings depicts aspects of water and nature through highly realistic portraits, lanscapes,  and waterscapes.

She actively participates in art exhibitions throughout Ottawa and has been recognized with several awards in local and international competitions. Her works, including numerous commissioned portraits, can be found in private collections across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Artist Statement

I am an artist whose work is deeply rooted in realism—a style that allows each creation to emerge with palpable life and depth. Every stroke of the brush or pencil brings a subject closer to reality, inviting a genuine connection that transcends the medium. For me, the practice of realism is not merely about technical precision; it’s about the dialogue between observation and emotion. 

In my artistic process, I use oil paints to build up layers of depth and light, creating a sense of realism to draw the viewer in. Texture plays an important role in my work, giving the illusion of movement—whether it’s the crashing of waves or the softness of a distant horizon. My goal is not just to paint landscapes but to evoke emotion, to make the viewer feel the coolness of a waterfall, the warmth of a sunset, or the vastness of an open sky.

Whether it’s a celebration of the human spirit—capturing resilience, passion, and connection—or a depiction of nature and its splendours—showcasing its vibrant beauty, tranquil moments, its wildlife, and untamed power—my art is intended to serve as a visual storybook.

I invite viewers to join me on this journey, to experience the world through my eyes, and to find their own stories within the colours and forms of my work.

Website: https://erikafarkas.com

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/erikafarkasart

Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/erikafarkasart