My name is Nadezhda, pronounced "Na-Dež-Da" ~ meaning 'Hope' in Russian.
I immigrated to Canada in early 2007 with just a suitcase, a smile and my good name. I knew I had to adapt to survive, but that wasn’t enough for me. I'm passionate and driven, and I wanted to thrive in my new home.
My art is a reflection of my personal values. I live to empower women and men and give voice to those who struggle. I know what it's like to face self-worth issues due to childhood bullying. From a very young age til my early 30s I was shamed and bullied for my body. Through a personal project in self-portraiture, I learned to turn my insecurities into strengths. This journey helped me appreciate real beauty, which comes from within.
My career was the best thing that ever happened. I am so fortunate to be meeting so many wonderful men and women and I found my purpose in not only taking their photos, but also helping them to be seen, heard, appreciated and cared for. This ability I have is something that no one can take away from me. I am no longer voiceless, and I'm happy to be louder for those at the back: "You are worthy, you are important and you have a purpose!"
My process as an artist is to capture the very essence of a soul in front of me... drawing forth the magic within us all. When my clients see themselves in a new light, they often say: “I never imagined I would see myself this beautiful!”
