Daria Startseva has always been drawn to visual storytelling, she studied Graphic Design and Advertising at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna.
What drives her across painting: a clear idea, emotional depth, and attention to detail. Whether she is designing a digital product, illustrating a book, or painting on canvas, she always aim to create something meaningful and human
ArtDependence (AD): What inspired you to take part in the Art to Collect project?
Daria Startseva (DS): I liked the idea of making contemporary art approachable to a wider audience. Art to Collect opens a dialogue between artists and collectors outside the traditional gallery setting. It gives my works a new platform to be seen and hopefully spark an interest or emotion in different contexts.
AD: Can you tell us the story behind the artwork Yellow Butterflies?
DS: I selected Yellow Butterflies for this project. The installation is composed of individually cut and painted paper forms, brought together into one flowing composition. For me, butterflies are a symbol of transformation, renewal and quiet resilience. They suggest fragility but also freedom and collective rhythm. This work is about change, movement and light – a meditation on how something delicate can also carry strength. Since I often explore the theme of "Inner Presence" and "Transformation" in my works–this is a very good example.
Daria Startseva, Yellow Butterflies, 2025
AD: How does your work reflect your view of the world right now?
DA: The world feels very fast, fragmented and often heavy and sensorly overloaded. Through my work I try to create a counterpoint – calm spaces of lightness, clarity and presence in the moment – yet carrying an energy with it. The Yellow Butterflies embody this: individually fragile, but together forming a vibrant and uplifting whole.
AD: What role do you think art plays in connecting people today?
DS: Art can connect people beyond words – it speaks through color, form and emotion it doesn't need an explanation. Especially today, when we often communicate through screens, art offers something slower, more authentic, tactile and real. I see art also as an experience seeing the world through the artist’s eyes.
AD: What message or feeling do you hope viewers take away from your art?
DS: I don’t want to dictate a message. My hope is that viewers feel a sense of energy, a spark of a feeling they can relate to, that they feel lighter and inspired – as if something opened up inside them, quietly but clearly. If Yellow Butterflies leaves someone with a moment of pause or inspiration, then it has fulfilled its role.
Main Image: Daris Startseva, Yellow Butterflies, 2025