Elvira Dayel

Elvira m. Dayel was born in summer of 1978 in Ukraine, former Soviet Union. She was raised there but had to immigrate as a refugee with her family to the United States in 1994. The wings of immigration brought Dayel family first to Los Angeles. Sunny LA gave family a warm welcome and reliable shelter. Elvira later pursued career as an artist while initially obtaining two bachelor degrees one in biological sciences and another one in fine arts. She then challenged herself in learning about her deep interest in built structures and city organization, while graduating with a master’s degree in Architecture from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Architecture and Urban Design. In 2004 upon successful completion of her studies, Elvira moved to San Francisco Bay Area, where she currently lives and works.

“Hunter’s Point Shipyard is a very special place for me – almost a sacred space of creation. I was lucky to have found an art studio space here five years ago when I was given 30-day notice in my previous place! Instantly it was love at first sight. Compassion of the people, complicated history of the place give HPSY its enigma. It has a strong magnetic draw for me & many other creatives here.”