Do you know what Camille Pissarro once told the successful broker Paul Gauguin when he decided to devote himself to painting? He simply said, “I gave up everything”.

In that spirit, I want to share with you everything I know, love, and deeply cherish.

This site wouldn’t  be here without the financial support of my dear friend and comrade, Natasha Makarenko.

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Yulia Garamova and Natasha Makarenko are both art historians (Academy of Art University  San Francisco, Stanford University), though our original fields are quite different. Yulia holds a master’s degree in music, while Natasha has a master’s in HR Management. This combination of skills perfectly complements our work in the art world.

Before moving to California, Yulia spent 16 years in the media as the author and host of popular radio shows (Europa Plus, Retro FM, Radio 7, Hit-FM) and TV programs (NTV, Muz-TV) in Moscow. Now, in the Bay Area, she leads the lecture series “Histories of Masterpieces” and the “Art Walk Project”— which includes museum tours for children and adults.

Natasha also used to work in media, notably at Silver Rain Radio in Moscow, and now curates children’s educational programs like “Let’s Talk About Art” here in California.

In just two years, we’ve launched several successful projects and are excited to continue growing. Our next goal? To turn this virtual art lounge into a permanent space—Your Art Lounge!

We are incredibly happy to welcome an extraordinary person to our team!

Svetlana Kroz

Promotional Director of Your Art Lounge Magazine 

Svetlana Kroz is an experienced media professional and cultural project organizer. She worked as a radio and television host and served as the director of a TV and radio company for over 18 years in Russia.

After moving to the U.S. in 2007, she dedicated herself to promoting art and culture within the Russian-speaking community in the Bay Area.

Svetlana leads literary, poetic, and musical events, organizes art tours, lectures, and film clubs — bringing creativity and inspiration to audiences.

Her passion and expertise help Your Art Lounge connect with people, support artists, and build a vibrant and inclusive cultural community.

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Irina Behrendt

One more person, without whom Your Art Lounge would not have happened.
My  best and  most devoted friend in the world — Irina Behrendt.
Her powerful support, faith in my endeavors and selfless help (she is the one who translated the magazine’s articles and  videos into English) always and everywhere inspire me.