Location: United States
Mila Ryk is a third-generation contemporary artist born in Ukraine who immigrated to the United States in 1991. Now based in Chicago, she has spent nearly two decades earning regional acclaim and establishing herself as an active curatorial voice in the fine art community.Working primarily in bold oils and fluid line work, Mila is the creator of "Imaginary Expressionism"—a signature style designed to forge a deep emotional connection between the viewer, the figure, and the natural world. Her evocative pieces have been featured in premier art publications, including The Best of America Oil Artists (Vol. II), the International Dictionary of Artists, Living Artists of Today (Vol. II & III), and a June 2026 feature in Artistcloseup Magazine. She was also recognized as a prominent local talent in a dedicated interview with VoyageChicago Magazine.Beyond her studio practice, Mila frequently serves as an exhibition juror. Her curatorial contributions include serving on the jury panel for the Bridging Through Colors exhibition—presented by LarkGallery in April 2026. As well as the upcoming Autumn Enchantment exhibition at the iconic Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica organized by LarkGallery in collaboration with Vivid Art Studio Gallery and bG Gallery in Santa Monica, CA.Mila’s distinguished career is anchored by major exhibitions across the country, from Spectrum Miami during Art Basel week to the EvanstonMade show at the Evanston Art Center. In 2026, her global appeal was solidified when she finished as a top-5 group finalist in The People’s Artist campaign presented by Johnny Depp.
In my work I unite line work of figures, brushstrokes, vivid colors and nature in one unique form harmony and beauty. Inspired by Art Nouveau and amazed by endless beauty and variety of Orchids, as well as trees and other flora I developed my own style and technique over the years. I named my style “Imaginary Expressionism”.
With this painting, called 'The Beginning,' I wanted to capture that beautiful, quiet moment when we look at something new starting to grow. I placed her on a warm background and used a mix of deep, emotional colors for her body, but gave her a calm, glowing face as she gazes at a fresh flower. To me, it is a reminder of how peaceful it feels to witness new life and healing
This painting comes straight from a place of peace in my heart. By blending the female form with trees and plants, I am trying to show how deeply connected we all are to the earth. I call my way of painting 'Imaginary Expressionism,' but really, it is just my way of putting a little comfort, warmth, and quiet strength out into the world.
I painted 'Dancing with the Tree' to celebrate the happy harmony between us and the earth. You can see the figure completely intertwined with the branches and flowers, all of them glowing and moving together. I used a warm palette to radiate that uplifting feeling.
For this piece I wanted to explore the quiet, hidden world of our own minds. It shows two figures sitting softly by a tree, both looking down in deep thought. Behind one of them, her inner thoughts start to appear as butterfly wings filled with chaotic, abstract shapes—but in a beautiful, gentle way. To me, it is a reminder that even our messy, complicated thoughts can turn into something peaceful and lovely.
“The Beginning 2”
“Tree of Life”
“Dancing with the Tree ”
“Fantasy”
