Ever wonder who took that rad photo of Masha in a fantastical paper hat for the relaunch of masha.com? It was none other than the talented LA-based artist and friend, Lika Brutian. For this installment of Artists we Love, Lika chats with us about her process. Some of Lika’s moody depictions of women are so on-point in the realm of fashion, we weren’t sure whether to feature this artist here or in our Fashion Crush series or in both – you be the judge! Read on and be inspired by her poignant images – we sure are!

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Tell us a bit about your upbringing and early life–did you always want to be an artist?
I was born in a family of scientists and artists. I was never conciously thinking about becoming an artist. At the same time, one of my favorite pastimes was to visit my aunt in her studio and my parents’ artist friends. I loved drawing and playing/sculpting with clay, like all children. I dreamt of majoring in film and becoming a director but got my master’s degree in Psychology. After working for years as a therapist, I started to shoot. First, for myself, then it became inalienable, essential part of my life.

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What inspires you the most?
Almost everything can become a source of inspiration. It can be triggered by a phrase I like in a book or hear somewhere, music, cinema, places, nature, etc.

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Your work is imbued with mysterious sensuality, what is your favorite light / technique / subject to work with?
Mostly I shoot women, probably associating with my current mood, playfulness, etc. I love natural light, I love natural moving shadows. Regarding technique; nothing really specific except my little secrets.

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Which artists do you admire the most?
Undoubtedly, geniusеs of the Renaissance and my favorite modern artists – Jean Jansem, Modigliani. Photographers who inspire me are Henri Cartier Bresson, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Sarah Moon.

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What is the favorite photo you’ve ever taken?
This one below.

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Do you have anything new and exciting coming up that you’d like to tell us about?
I keep shooting and being filled with new ideas for new photo projects.

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When and where do you work most frequently–do you find your inspiration varies throughout the day?
I shoot everywhere :). I don’t have specific location for my photoshoots. I use studios, outdoor locations, my friends’ houses and my own home. It depends on the project.

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Which person (famous or not) would you be most honored to have one of your photos?
I would love to work with John Malkovich.

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Have you ever received or given a favorite greeting card? Who was it from/to, and why was it your favorite?
My favorite cards are hand-made cards made by my sons during the years. I keep them, I look at them, I smile. I feel happy.

Thank you Lika! Click over to her website for more beauty.–

Images courtesy Lika Brutian.