"I believe in a dance between art and research that we can use as a powerful tool to drive social change, rebuild trust, and infuse optimism into our communities."
Alena Rogozhkina,
Founder and Artistic Director of Abandoned Artists
About
Alena (pronounced as ‘A-lyo-na’) Rogozhkina is a Ukrainian-born Edinburgh-based visual artist and a a researcher driven by a passion for community wellbeing. Linking both her background in Behavioural Science and Contemporary Art Practice, she expresses her own emotional realities while exploring the limits that people have to create a better everyday reality. Alena works across notions of time, memory, materiality, decay, and connection with a range of media including found materials, installation, photography, painting, printmaking, and moving image.
She is also a Creative mentor for the Creative Edinburgh mentoring programme helping emerging artists navigate their professional path by doing what they love the most.
Alena is a member of the Scottish Contemporary Art Network and an alumni of Curated Place.
In 2023, Alena founded Abandoned Artists CIC, driven by her belief in art’s ability to
rebuild trust, spark hope, and foster connection, especially for those affected by war and
displacement. Drawing on her background in contemporary art, printmaking, and
behavioural science, Alena has created a unique space where creativity becomes a tool
for emotional healing, community-building and professional development. She combines
artistic practice with a deep understanding of human behaviour, helping individuals
process trauma and regain confidence through the art of creation.
Beyond making art, Alena’s work focuses on mentorship, empowerment, and providing
displaced creatives with the space and support to find their voice. She has
mentored emerging artists, inspiring them to use their creativity for personal and social
change. Her approach goes far beyond teaching techniques it’s about nurturing self-
expression, fostering resilience, and building a community of support.
Alena’s entrepreneurial spirit has earned her recognition, including awards for
mentoring, innovation, and leadership. Yet it’s her deep personal connection to
displaced communities and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of art making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
In 2025 Alena has been recognised for her dedication and passion through her accolades, such as finalist for Wise 100 Rising Star.
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