Hello, and welcome to my site! My name is Elena Gladkova.

Born in Moscow and raised in the U.S., I grew up inspired by the masterpieces of the Tretyakov Gallery, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Met. I received my classical training at the Grand Central Atelier, and I continue to paint from life, captivated by the honesty and presence it brings. Six years ago, I left a successful corporate career to devote myself fully to art, a choice that deepened my gratitude for every hour at the easel. Plein air painting holds a special place in my practice, allowing me to immerse myself in the shifting light, color, and textures of the natural world. I am especially captivated by the golden hour, when the landscape glows with fleeting magic. Through my work, I aim to share the beauty, stillness, harmony, and quiet wonder found in nature.

Education

Grand Central Atelier, New York, NY
Core Drawing and Painting Program, completed December 2024
Graduation Exhibition, Salmagundi Club, May 2025

Exhibitions

Solo Show at Majoch Gallery, Effort, PA. Oct 2024

Selected Group Shows:

• “Everyday Life, Every Day Art”, Juried Show, Cloudcroft Studio, Owego, NY. Aug 2026

• “2026 Summer Member Show”, Evelyn Peeler Peacock Gallery, Corning, NY. July 2026

• “Flowstate”, Juried Exhibition, Willow Vermont Retreat, VT. Aug 2025

• “From a Distance”,  Juried Exhibition, Salmagundi Club, Manhattan, NY. Jan 2024

• Grand Central Atelier Year End Show, Salmagundi Club, Manhattan, NY. May 2024

• “Atelier”, Juried Exhibition, Willow Vermont Retreat, VT. Aug 2023

• “Dream Space”, Juried Exhibition, Salmagundi Club, Manhattan, NY, December 2022