Milla Petrova

Mixed Media

Background:

Seattle-based artist and designer Milla Petrova was born in the former Soviet Union, where art was one of the few spaces beyond the state's total control. In that world, creativity wasn't just expression; it was a coded language for truths too dangerous to speak aloud.

Interestingly, the Soviet system genuinely prioritized arts education. Milla grew up in an environment where art academies, music, and cultural programs were widespread and often offered at no cost. Classical training in music, ballet, chess, and visual arts was rigorous and accessible to everyone, regardless of economic status.

With limited material comforts and restricted travel, intellectual and artistic pursuits became the primary means of enrichment. People gathered in kitchens for hours, discussing poetry, philosophy, and literature. These activities weren't just hobbies; they were ways for people to make sense of their world and connect meaningfully with others. The arts served both as a refuge—officially promoted yet unofficially subversive—creating a unique cultural intensity that influenced Milla's artistic vision.

Artistic Vision:

Milla was always attracted to art and photography because a single image can capture memory, light, and emotion. She is known for her eclectic approach, which combines traditional painting techniques with works on canvas, paper, and found objects. Her work often explores themes of memory and identity, sometimes depicted through vibrant, textured layers that invite viewers to examine them more closely.

Her passion lies in transforming the invisible into the tangible: from abstract concepts to the subtle energy of human connection. She might start with a simple image—sometimes her own, sometimes a client's cherished photo—and unfold it into form and color. The goal is always the same: to create a piece that invites you to feel, to reminisce, and to see your memory as a timeless work of art.

Achievements:

During the pandemic, clients began asking her to turn their most treasured photographs into paintings, and she discovered the power of transforming personal memories into something lasting. Word spread about her talent, and working primarily with acrylics on canvas, she was commissioned to create art for private residences in California and Washington State. 

Realizing that many people's best memories are captured on their cell phones, she launched ArtByMilla in April 2025 with a mission to give those moments a permanent, emotional presence. She brings her vision to life through the tangible beauty of pencil, watercolor, and acrylic, crafting custom pieces from submitted photos.