Interview: iZZY iZVNE | Republic of Moldova

The ICBSS has conducted a series of online interviews with women artists from the Black Sea, who shared insights into their work through their contributions.

 

iZZY iZVNE, Mural Artist | Republic of Moldova

Please introduce yourself to our audience. Share with us some key information about yourself and your career, such as your educational background, participation in events like festivals or exhibitions, and any awards you have received.

My name is Inna, better known as iZZY iZVNE. I am a Moldovan street artist specializing in 3D murals and calligraphy. I started my path in 2011 with classical graffiti, and I am mostly known for illusory works that create the feeling of portals to alternate universes, making the walls “breathe.”

My works decorate walls in countries such as Germany, France, Portugal, Cyprus, the UAE, and more. I actively participate in international street art exhibitions and festivals, helping to promote my cosmic calligraphy style and connect with audiences globally.

I am deeply involved in the cultural life of my country and in event organization. I am the founder of “Urban Spirit Family”, an organization that supports street art and organizes hip-hop festivals. This initiative includes not only visual art but also music, dance, and graffiti, allowing me to participate in multidisciplinary projects.

I pioneered the creation of illusory 3D graffiti that combines elements of calligraphy and cosmic themes. My style has been recognized as unique and inspiring, receiving positive feedback from both viewers and professional artists. My works are regularly featured in international publications about graffiti and street art. In 2018, UN Women included me in the "Top 10 Women Changing the History of Moldova." These achievements have established me as one of the most significant figures in contemporary graffiti art in Eastern Europe.

Some of the most recent international mural projects I participated in are:

• Le MUR De Mouans - Sartoux, France (January, 2024)
• Urban Art Festival (Austria) (July, 2022)
• Participation at the mural festival “Wall Street” in Stockholm, Sweden (June, 2022)
• Mural project in Paris, organized by Le MUR Obercampf (June, 2022)
• Grenoble Street Art Festival (France) (June, 2022)

Tell us about the art form(s) you work on. Share with us some interesting information about the creative process.

My style is a unique blend of calligraphic forms, geometry, and cosmic themes. As a pioneer in this direction, I aim to uncover the hidden beauty within everyday reality, by showing how profound and multifaceted the “life inside a grey wall” can be, and drawing a parallel with the inner world of each person. Through my art, I strive to inspire viewers to step away from their daily routines and to contemplate the depth of the world and the possibilities that appear when we look at the familiar from a new perspective. The key features of my style are:

• Cosmic themes: My works are inspired by the universe and space, conveying infinity and depth through vibrant colours, transitions, and complex forms.
• Illusion of depth: My murals create the impression of walls turning into tunnels or portals, offering access to other worlds and emphasizing hidden dimensions.
• Calligraphy and geometry: I combine calligraphy with geometric forms, giving my works dynamic movement and sensuality.
• Contrast: I often work on dull grey surfaces; adding bright colours to bring them to life and symbolizing the hidden beauty within the ordinary.

My style encourages reflection on reality and inspires the discovery of the hidden aspects of the world. Over time, I have achieved significant success in the field of street art, standing out for my unique artistic vision and international recognition.

If you had to present us just one of your artworks, which one would you select? Share with us the details and the message you want to communicate through this artwork.

“Life Cycle”, which was created within the framework of the Grenoble Street Art Fest in France, is a piece of art that explores the connection between our inner and outer worlds. I deeply believe that when our body dies, our internal energy becomes part of the universe, continuing to exist there until it is reborn into new life.

The left side of the mural represents the human body from within, down to the smallest cells of our organism. The right side depicts the vast dimensions of the universe, where atoms grow into planets and travel from a single spark of life to the multiverse.

Perhaps this was the first wall I truly wanted to name and to use to tell a broader story about the dimensions where I’m “flying” all the time.

Photograph: “Life Cycle” - Grenoble Street Art Fest, France

Women artists still face many barriers and disparities. What inspires you to continue being creative and staying focused on doing what you love?

Indeed, women artists continue to face structural and cultural barriers; from lack of visibility to being underestimated or stereotyped. For me, creativity has always been a form of resistance, inner healing, and connection with something greater than myself. I draw inspiration from the unseen, the unexplored, and from the belief that art can open portals, both within us and around us.

When I paint, especially in public spaces, I feel that I’m reclaiming space, voice, and presence, not only for myself, but also for those who often remain unheard. The conviction that art can change narratives and make people feel seen keeps me focused. And when I see young girls at our workshops pick up a spray can for the first time, their eyes lighting up with confidence, that’s the most powerful reminder to keep going.

Art can be a catalyst for intercultural dialogue, gender equality and social inclusion. What is your vision for the role of your work in addressing these issues?

My vision, as well as one of the main missions of the “Urban Spirit Family”, is to organize graffiti and art workshops for children and young people across Moldova, particularly in rural areas, with a focus on gender equality and human rights. Since 2016, the team has reached over 70% of the country’s towns and villages, engaging local youth in discussions about gender equality through creative expression. These workshops often culminate in collaborative street art pieces created together with local participants, serving both as visual reminders and as ongoing public dialogues on these important topics.

Is there anything else that you would like to discuss?

I would be glad to explore opportunities for further collaboration in promoting gender equality and human rights through street art. Our organization has extensive experience in this field and a strong record of impactful projects.

Among our partners have been USAID, the Swedish Institute, Swiss Cooperation in Moldova, UNICEF, UN Women, and others.

We would be happy to hear people’s thoughts and look forward to receiving responses.

For more information, please visit our Instagram page: @urban_spirit_family

Sources & photographs:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/izzyizvneart/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/izzyizvne

Photograph No 1: iZZY iZVNE

Photograph No 2: “Life Cycle” - Grenoble Street Art Fest, France - Photographer: Andrea Berlese

Photograph No 3: “Canvas 5076”

More at:

www.izzyizvne.com

https://www.behance.net/izzyizvne

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Special thanks go to iZZY iZVNE for generously sharing her valuable insights with the ICBSS.

DISCLAIMER

This post was prepared by the International Centre for Black Sea Studies (ICBSS). It reflects the views of the interviewees only, and does not necessarily represent the views of ICBSS or its affiliated institutions. The ICBSS cannot be held responsible for any use of the information contained herein.

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