With a rapidly expanding body of work, YAMA is quickly earning recognition as a compelling voice in contemporary art. Making his debut with Castle Fine Art at Art Miami this year, we introduce a collection of work that’s visually playful but quietly provocative, blending social commentary with nostalgic pop culture.

Raised in post-Soviet Lithuania and entirely self-taught, YAMA began sketching imagined worlds as a child. Today, those early drawings have evolved into expressive, character-led paintings that explore themes of consumerism, conformity and identity. His bright colours, soft gradients and painterly textures contrast with the weight of the ideas beneath, inviting viewers into a world that’s gentle on the surface but rich with meaning.

Each of his works carries a narrative. The artist channels his own reactions to social issues through his characters, immersing himself in discomfort as a way of processing and creating something authentic. His recurring figures, like ‘Moo’ and ‘Homini’, are often part of a bigger journey, as he paints with their next steps, and perhaps an idealised conclusion, in mind.

“I want to express the value of being yourself, even if it feels uncomfortable or strange. Don’t follow the crowd, instead ask questions, find your own answers and challenge social norms.”