WHO AM I
It’s a question I ask myself every day.
Not to find the answer — but to remember that I don’t know.
My name is Sergey Yemelin.
Some call me an artist. A creative director.
A photographer. A writer. A marathon runner.
A philosopher. A seeker. A man of light.
But beyond all that —
Who am I, truly?
I am what I am.
Dust of the earth.
Breath of the stars.
A fleeting form through which eternity peers at itself.
Most people spend their lives building an identity — separating me from you, from the world, from God.
They say: my name, my work, my worth, my followers, my dreams, my future. They collect. They compare. They compete. They search for recognition, wealth, and control. But I own nothing — and I have everything.
I don’t need to possess the Earth — I am of it. I don’t need applause — I am the silence that listens. I rejoice in being part of the One. A ripple in the ocean. A leaf in the wind of Spirit. An instrument through which the Divine can observe, feel, and create.
That is why I make art. Not to show myself — but to dissolve myself. To search for the light behind the gaze. To touch the sacred in the ordinary. To remember: I am not the image.
I am the eye behind it.
Creative Journey
2002 – The Digital Awakening
A young boy from Oleksandriya, Ukraine, discovers Photoshop, transforming his passion for drawing into a new digital realm. This marks the beginning of a lifelong journey in digital artistry.
2004 – 2009: Dual Passions, Dual Degrees
While pursuing a Master’s degree in Economics, I also dive deep into the world of Art & Design at the Institute of Regional Management and Economics in Kirovograd, Ukraine. Balancing these dual degrees shapes my unique perspective on creativity and business.
2005 – 2006: Honorable Service
I serve my country in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, completing my duty with honors and commendations. This experience instills discipline and resilience, qualities that would later fuel my creative endeavors.
2010 – 2013: Designer and Retoucher | Creative Agency “SAS
Here, I hone my skills, creating impactful print materials and collaborating with marketing teams to bring ideas to life. Advanced photo retouching and editing become my forte.
2013 – 2015: Art Director | Theatre and Restaurant “Paris”
Leading artistic projects, I merge innovative concepts with visual storytelling. Collaborating with photographers, designers, and performers, I create captivating theatrical performances and photo/video shoots.
2015 – 2024: Establishing Creative Studio Yemelin ART
Venturing into Turkey, I establish my own creative studio. Specializing in high-quality production services, styling, and rental of exclusive attire, my studio becomes a hub for creative excellence. I lead a talented team, overseeing everything from budgeting to resource allocation, while frequently serving as the lead photographer. My work gains recognition for its top-tier quality and meticulous attention to detail.
However, my journey doesn’t end here. Yet, my heart and mind are open to new horizons. I am actively seeking opportunities to expand my creative journey across other countries.
Highlights
🌱 Vegetarian Since 2009
I have embraced vegetarianism since 2009 for ethical reasons, respecting all forms of life and striving for a compassionate lifestyle.
🏃 Active Marathon and Trail Runner
An avid runner, I cover up to 3,000 km per year through marathons and trail running, constantly pushing my physical and mental limits.
👍🏻 Hitchhiking Adventurer
I have hitchhiked across more than 20 countries, covering over 60,000 kilometers, embracing the spontaneity and adventure of the open road.
🇺🇦 Ukrainian Army Veteran
I served in the Ukrainian Armed Forces with distinction, completing my service with an excellent record and commendations.
📖 Scholar of World Religions
I have read all available sacred texts from the major religions of the world, driven by a deep interest in spiritual knowledge and understanding.
🕉 Diverse Spiritual Practices
I have been a member of a Christian church, lived in a Vaishnava temple, and practiced Buddhism and Vipassana meditation, exploring various spiritual paths.
📸 Experienced Photographer
I have conducted over 1,500 photo sessions with clients from diverse countries, capturing unique moments and stories through my lens.
🌟 Trendsetter in Cappadocia
I launched the first flying dress rental service in Cappadocia, Turkey, setting a nationwide trend and elevating the region’s photography scene.
🎓 Dual Degree Holder
I completed two higher education degrees, earning a Bachelor’s in Arts and a Master’s in Economics within a span of five years, demonstrating my dedication and versatility in both creative and analytical fields.
🌍 Left a Thriving Business
I chose to leave a thriving business for three main reasons: to want to live in a more open minded, free and democratic country and to feel myself as a small unknown fish in a big ocean.
