The Alchemy of Art: Dina Baitasova’s Journey of Self-Discovery in My Riverbeds

Kazakhstani artist Dina Baitasova’s solo exhibition, “My Riverbeds” invites viewers on a profound and personal journey into the depths of the human soul. Through the lens of alchemy and mythology, Dina explores themes of identity, spiritual transformation, and the ongoing search for one’s true self.

Dina’s works serve as a visual diary of a 15-year inner journey, where she likens human life to the flowing course of a river: an ever-changing path of discovery, renewal, and transformation.

Key Themes of the Exhibition:

Alchemy: Dina sees the creation of art as an alchemical process, where the artist becomes an alchemist, transforming personal experiences into deeper self-understanding.
Mythology: Drawing from Kazakh, Greek, and world mythologies, Dina weaves together symbols that explore universal human experiences.
Nature: The landscapes of Kazakhstan and Greece—where Dina has traveled—play a pivotal role in her creative expression, reflecting the soul’s journey and providing strength.

Alchemical Journey in Three Stages

The exhibition is divided into three phases, each mirroring an alchemical transformation:

Nigredo (Work in Black): This phase represents chaos and the beginning of an inner quest. The artworks here, dominated by deep blue hues, depict the journey into the unconscious mind.
Albedo (Work in White): The rebirth stage, where one finds a new perspective and sense of self. White plaster figures represent discarded old forms, symbolizing purification and renewal.
Rubedo (Work in Red): The final phase signifies the union of the personal and universal, as the artist reaches harmony with the world. Vibrant red pieces explore femininity and nature’s strength, with the central motif being the mountain, a symbol of the Great Mother in Turkic mythology.

For the first time, Dina Baitasova reveals the culmination of her 15-year personal and creative evolution, offering a glimpse into her transformative journey.

About the Artist

Dina Baitasova’s artistic journey began 15 years ago in Paris, where she grappled with her cultural identity. Her surname, “Bay-tas” (meaning “precious stone” in Kazakh), became the foundation for her personal mythology. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly shaped her work, prompting a deeper reflection on her roots and future. In 2021, she embarked on a pilgrimage to sacred Kazakh sites, reconnecting with her homeland’s cultural and natural landscapes. A 2022 art residency in Greece helped finalize her artistic vision, merging Byzantine influences with ancient mythology.