What if a work of art could do more than simply decorate a space, what if it could shift your state, anchor your intentions, and become a personal symbol of transformation for the year ahead?

In 2026, contemporary artist Daria Usova unveils her newest Symbol of the Year: the Orange Horse, a dynamic image of movement, inner strength, and forward momentum. Known internationally for her patented collage technique Pièces Art, Usova creates compositions built from thousands of intricate elements, where each detail carries meaning, and in many cases, a personal message coded specifically for its future owner.

Her works are already part of prestigious museum and private collections worldwide, including the Guggenheim Museum Foundation, the Prince Albert II Collection, and high-profile private collectors such as the Kardashian family and Dolce & Gabbana.

In this exclusive conversation with Porterium Magazine, Daria speaks about the symbolism behind the Orange Horse, the power of her layered “365 luck symbols,” her one-of-a-kind personalization process, and the global art fairs shaping her next chapter, from Contemporary Istanbul to Zona Maco and Art Dubai Digital.

⸻

PM: Daria, in 2026 you are presenting a new Symbol of the Year. Tell us about the concept of the “Fire Horse” or the Orange Horse.

Daria Usova:
The Fire Horse, or Orange Horse, is a symbol of forward movement, transformation, and inner strength. For me, it represents a moment of transition, when intention turns into action. The horse is captured mid-jump, in a state of maximum energetic focus. The orange color reflects vitality and joy, while the silver mental portal represents clarity of thought, focus, and a conscious direction for the year ahead.

PM: Your Symbols of the Year are always multi-layered. What makes this work truly unique?

Daria Usova:
This artwork is created using my collage technique and consists of thousands of individual elements. It includes 365 symbols of luck. These symbols function as visual anchors, guiding a person’s attention and emotional state. The piece becomes a kind of talisman, supporting intention, helping maintain focus, and amplifying the sense of movement toward abundance and manifestation.

PM: The word “personalization” often appears in your projects. What does it mean to you?

Daria Usova:
Personalization is a key part of my artistic practice. Today, I am the only artist in the world who personalizes artworks by integrating elements directly connected to the collectors themselves. I fill each piece with their desires, intentions, emotional states, and the qualities they wish to develop, in order to shape and program their desired future.

To do this, I send a special questionnaire. The answers are transformed into visual elements of the collage and embedded into the composition through symbols and meaning. This approach allows me to create not simply an artwork, but a truly unique one-of-one piece that deeply resonates with its owner.

PM: Your latest participation in an exhibition generated major public interest. Tell us about it.

Daria Usova:
Yes, it took place at the anniversary 20th edition of Contemporary Istanbul. I was represented by the Latvvian gallery CUT ART. My portal series was showcased there and was received by the public in a deeply emotional and meaningful way. One of the central portals, the artwork “Oasis” (130 × 200 cm), was sold to an international art collector. I also presented my sculptures, including the metaphysical Medusa.

PM: What projects are coming next for you?

Daria Usova:
At the beginning of February, I’m planning to participate in Zona Maco, one of Latin America’s most important contemporary art fairs. After that, in April, I will be taking part in Art Dubai, within the Art Dubai Digital section. There, I will present a solo project dedicated to transformation, transmutation, and an alchemical exploration of the ocean and human consciousness. It continues my artistic dialogue about inner portals, energy, and the power of art to shift our perception of reality.

⸻

For those seeking more than decoration — for those drawn to art that carries intention, symbolism, and personal meaning — Daria Usova’s work offers a rare opportunity to live with a piece that reflects your inner landscape.

To explore her work or commission a personalized artwork, visit:

Instagram: @dariacollages
Website: www.dariausova.com