In a world where time is the most precious resource, finding a balance between study and creativity becomes a real art. Today we talk to a young artist Zhanel Berikova, who shares her experience of participating in competitions, her dreams for the future and her advice for aspiring artists. Her story is an example of how art can be a source of inspiration and strength, even when it is not central to life.
Tell me, how do you find a balance between your studies and your art? Is there always enough time for art?
With the lack of free time during my studies, I try to give up gadgets in favor of listening to music or reading books. These activities help me to expand my imagination and find inspiration.
Have you participated in any exhibitions or competitions before? What are your impressions?
I haven’t participated in many competitions, but I can share a few experiences that I have had. In many cases I was confident of winning because I really loved the painting I was entering. However, I never felt much excitement or stress because I knew that my work was beautiful in its own way. I was very pleased to hear from the judges when they liked my paintings because it meant that they had not just looked at them, but had looked at the details, which play a huge part. I wouldn’t say that competitions help me develop my talent, but they make me realize that other people see my paintings too and some even understand their meaning, which is very important to me.
I took part in a city competition where my idea and work impressed the judges. I was very pleased with the results and experienced excitement. It is thanks to my participation in competitions that I have been interviewed more than once on different TV channels.
What is your dream or goal related to your art at this time?
At the moment I don’t have a clear goal, but I dream to paint anywhere and anytime. My best paintings are when I am in the mood and interested in the process.
How do your friends and family support your passion for art?
My mom gets very excited when I paint, but my friends are the most supportive. They are amazed at my skills and skill level.
What do you consider to be your most successful and favorite work so far? And why?
I consider my most successful work to be the Mace Coronel portrait. I paid special attention to detail, which made the portrait very interesting. I can still look at it for a long time and find new nuances.
How do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?
In the future I plan to paint for myself and maybe for my close people. I am sure that my paintings will be related to my life and places that have made a strong impression on me.
Currently, art is not central to my life. I used to dream of a creative profession, but people around me advised me to choose stability. This influenced my desire to pursue creativity in my adult life.
What advice would you give to young artists who are just beginning their creative journey?
The most important thing I would advise young artists is to love their work. It doesn’t matter what others say because those who really care about you will always support you. They see the sparkle in your eyes when you paint, and I think that’s the most important thing in creativity. If something doesn’t work out, it’s important not to give up and try again. There are times when you don’t want to paint at all, but usually it doesn’t last long and after such periods the paintings turn out even better.
Our interview has come to an end and we thank our interviewee, Zhanel Berikova, for the sincerity and inspiration she has shared. Her story is a reminder that art will always find its place in life if it comes from the heart. We wish her success in her artistic journey and hope that her work continues to inspire and delight others.
