HomeArtist Statement: Erika Vado
In my Inverness studio at Wasps Creative Academy, I create abstract and semi-abstract seascapes and landscapes that capture the vastness and mystery of Scotland’s natural beauty. Working mainly in oils, I aim to capture the ever shifting light, depth and beauty of nature, especially the North Sea and the expansive skies of the Scottish Highlands, which resonate deeply with me.
Born in Lithuania, I hold a BA Honours in Art, with training in fine art from Alytus Art School and Art History studies at Vytautas Magnus University in Kaunas. My journey as an artist has been shaped by a wide range of mediums - including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture and textiles.
I have nearly two decades of experience in education, working with young children has helped me rediscover the joy and freedom of mark-making, loosening the constraints of academic training and allowing a more expressive approach.
Sustainability is an integral part of my artistic practice and personal values. I believe in honouring and protecting the natural world that serves as my muse, which is why I strive to reduce my environmental footprint wherever possible. I am committed to upcycling old canvases, breathing new life into them, and making conscious choices around sustainable art materials. This approach not only reflects my respect for the earth but also deepens my connection with each piece I create. In reimagining resources, I aim to foster a cycle of creativity that is both inspiring and environmentally mindful.
As a qualified Reiki practitioner, I explore the healing effects of creative expression and seek to infuse each piece with transformative energy that touches the soul. Through my artwork, I invite viewers to share in the beauty, wonder and spirituality of Scotland’s landscapes. Please feel free to reach out for commissions, collaborations, or inquiries. I would be thrilled to connect and share more of this journey with you.
ERIKA VADO
Visual Artist & Early Years Creative Educator
Inverness, Scotland
Fb/Instagram: @erika_vado_art
www.erikavadoart.com
Artist Statement
I am a Lithuanian-born visual artist based in the Scottish Highlands, working primarily in oils to create expressive seascapes and landscapes inspired by the untamed beauty of nature. My practice is rooted in emotional connection, spiritual energy, and sustainability, translating experiences of light, distance, and atmosphere into evocative abstract and semi-abstract works.
Alongside my studio practice, I have been nurturing young children’s creative development since 2012, teaching mark making, collage, and junk modelling. This work continually informs and inspires my artistic exploration.
Education
MA in Cultural Heritage Protection, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania, 2003
BA (Hons) in Art History, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania, 2002
Alytus Art School, Lithuania, 1996–1998
City & Guilds Qualification in Craft & Design, 2008
City & Guilds Qualification in Interior Design, 2008
I am currently exploring the expressive possibilities of cold wax and oil painting, where texture, light, and emotion merge to create depth and atmosphere. Each piece unfolds intuitively, shaped by layered surfaces, movement, and a quiet dialogue between material and feeling.
As part of Wasps Inverness Creative Academy, I take part in exhibitions, collaborations, and workshops that nurture creativity and community. Guided by a commitment to sustainability, I often upcycle materials and use eco-conscious methods, allowing respect for nature to inform my process. Since 2012, I have also supported early years creative education, encouraging children to discover joy and imagination through hands-on play and artistic exploration.
Selected Exhibitions & Projects
Upcoming Exhibitions
2026 – Solo Exhibition, Eden Court Theatre, Inverness
2026 – Solo Exhibition, Loggie Art Gallery, Forres
Recent Exhibitions & Projects
2025 – Annual Tenant Exhibition, Inverness Creative Academy
2025 – Stillness in Time, Inverewe Gardens Art Exhibition
2025 – Corporate Event Art Workshop, Inverness
2025 – Art Society of Inverness Annual Exhibition
2025 – Wasps Winter Group Exhibition, Inverness Creative Academy
2024 – Domestic and the Wild, Nairn Book & Art Festival
2024 – Coming Together, Wasps Inverness Creative Academy 5th Anniversary Exhibition
2024 – Strathpeffer Pavilion Annual Art Exhibition
2024 – Art Workshop Coordinator, Hospice, Alytus, Lithuania
2023 – Annual Art Exhibition, Elgin Library
2023 – Wasps Inverness Annual Exhibition
2023 – Strathpeffer Pavilion Annual Art Exhibition
2022–2023 – The Great Tapestry of Scotland (Highlands), Stitching Group “Clava Cairns”
2022–2023 – Art Workshop Coordination, History & Culture Festival, Alytus, Lithuania
2022–2023 – Spirit360 Project Tapestry “Tree of Life”
Earlier Exhibitions & Achievements
2007–2010 – Exhibitions at Tore Gallery, Kelvingrove (Glasgow); Scottish Parliament (Edinburgh); Eden Court Theatre (Inverness); Elgin Museum; Kilmorack Gallery
2007 – Winner, B&Q Interior Design Competition (1st Prize)
2007 – Joined The Art Society of Inverness
2007 – Highland Matryoshka Group Exhibition, Inchmore Gallery
1997–2003 – Solo and group exhibitions in Lithuania, including Battle of Saule (Alytus) and Reflections (Perkuno Namai Gallery, Kaunas)
Creative & Community Engagement
Facilitator for art therapy and creative wellbeing sessions
Advocate for sustainable and experimental art practices, including upcycling materials and eco-conscious techniques
Collaborative participant in local cultural and heritage projects connecting art, nature, and community
Early years creative education.
Professional Memberships
Wasps Studios Artist Member, Inverness Creative Academy
The Art Society of Inverness – active exhibiting member since 2007