09 Jul 2026
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Olesya Bean, founder and curatorial director of the OCA Gallery and Olesya Contemporary Art Ltd in Victoria Street. Portrait photo by Stephen Stamp – https://stephenstamp.com
Do you speak any foreign languages?
Russian is my mother tongue, and growing up in Ukraine meant I also became fluent in Ukrainian. When I moved to the UK at 15, learning English quickly became a necessity. Thirty-three years later, I’d like to think I’ve improved a little! I also speak Spanish, thanks to spending time with my father, who lived in Spain. It does make summers in Marbella feel a little more authentic – and yes, I insist it’s all excellent language practice.
Do you play any musical instruments?
I graduated from Russian Music School as a pianist, with classical guitar as my second instrument. These days I don’t play as often as I’d like, but music will always be one of my first creative passions.
Have you ever asked for an autograph?
Ironically, no. Considering I spent years dealing in autographs professionally, I’ve never actually asked for one myself. But if you already have a treasured autograph, my team and I can transform it into a beautifully designed, bespoke framed display.
Have you ever been arrested and if so, for what?
Just once – and I promise I’m not a hooligan! It happened at Arsenal Football Stadium. Someone I was with decided to smoke where they shouldn’t and wasn’t particularly cooperative when asked to leave. We both ended up being arrested. Looking back, I was more fascinated by riding in a police car than anything else. Once was definitely enough!
What’s the first thing you do after you’ve woken up in the morning?
Coffee in bed – without fail. It’s become one of my favourite little rituals. Those quiet few minutes before the emails, phone calls and gallery doors open are the perfect time to gather my thoughts before the day begins.
Dogs or cats?
Definitely both, but my heart currently belongs to my kitten, Margarita – Rita for short. She’s full of personality and has already become part of the gallery family. Once she’s a little older, she’ll be promoted to the very important role of Gallery Cat.
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Somewhere north of 70… and I refuse to believe that’s excessive! A girl can never have too many shoes. My current favourites are by Sophia Webster – I can spot those signature butterflies from across a room.
What’s your favourite place to have breakfast in St Albans?
I can’t choose just one. Hatch serves an unbeatable sausage bun that keeps me coming back, while Cosy Club is perfect when breakfast turns into brunch. Great food, beautiful surroundings and, if the occasion calls for it, a Cherry Bakewell cocktail.
Where do you most like to have a picnic in St Albans?
Verulamium Park wins every time. I actually enjoyed a picnic there just last week and managed to find the perfect bench beneath a shady tree. It was wonderfully peaceful… apart from the Cathedral bells, which seemed determined to provide the soundtrack to the entire afternoon!
Are things getting better or worse?
Definitely better. Opening my own art gallery in the heart of St Albans has been one of the biggest – and bravest – steps I’ve ever taken. It’s exciting, a little daunting, and incredibly rewarding. Every day brings new opportunities, wonderful people and the chance to build something I’m truly proud of. It feels like the beginning of a very exciting new chapter.
