Born in Bulgaria in 1965, Darina spent much of her early life undergoing formal artistic training. Over a period of ten years she studied at the School of Fine Art and Design, and the Academy of Fine Art, specialising in silk printing and batik.

A true European, she then embarked on something of a Grand Tour, visiting England, Germany, Switzerland and Italy, where she made a thorough study of classical painting techniques and exhibited her work to receptive audiences.

The combination of a solid technical grounding and a cosmopolitan lifestyle has allowed Darina to master a wide range of styles and media. Influenced by the rhythmic lines of Schiele and the vivid palette of Matisse, her latest compositions are distinctive floral images which experiment with angles and perspectives to create an energetic interpretation of the traditional still life. She freely employs a variety of media including acrylics, watercolours, oils and pastels to great effect.

As a result of her extensive travels Darina has formed a wide network of admirers, and is regularly commissioned to paint portraits and murals for private buyers all over Europe. She has also held successful exhibitions in Belgium, Canada, Finland, Germany, Italy and the UK.