Pategul Mansurova is an artist whose creative journey spans several fields: from jurisprudence to entrepreneurship in the beauty industry. Having received a structured education, she was not afraid to experiment. However, a key turning point happened recently when her five children's passion for drawing led Pategul to her own true calling—painting. In her work, she explores themes of balance, harmony, and strength of spirit. In this interview, we discuss how diverse life experiences shape an artist, how family becomes a source of inspiration, and how to find the courage to start a new endeavor despite the lack of specialized training.
Your path is a combination of jurisprudence, hairdressing art, and painting. How did these, seemingly different spheres form you as a personality and as an artist?
My path seems multifaceted, but for me it always was whole. In each of these spheres I found a creative approach. Jurisprudence taught me to see the essence, to seek justice and to structure thought. Even there I made small sketches of dactyloscopic researches or schematic explanations of situations. Hairdressing art revealed in me the ability to feel beauty in a human, to create an image and through hands to transmit energy. Already then people told me that I was like an artist. Painting became the space where I can connect the internal with the external, depth with form, spirit with matter. All this together — my language, through which I express myself and communicate with the world.
Your five children's passion for art eventually inspired your own creative calling. Could you share the story of that pivotal moment? What was it like when you first held a paintbrush?
My children were interested in different kinds of drawing—from posters to paint-by-number kits. I happily replenished their arsenal of tools and paints, almost as if for myself, but I never actually started painting. One day, I decided to paint a section of the wall in the kitchen. After that, I realized I needed to try to depict something from the soul onto a canvas and see what would happen, despite not having any specialized knowledge.
How do you think your art resonated so quickly with the public and received recognition in international competitions?
I believe it’s because my paintings are born from a state of the soul, not just from technique. It’s the energy of the paintings—they are alive. The viewer can simply change their mood or their reflection on something the painting brought up. I am happy that my paintings have a positive, constructive influence—that they help people energetically, psychologically, and emotionally. Everyone finds their own comparison to a story from their life or receives an answer to a deep question they hold.
What topics do you consider key in your work? Why are the ideas of balance, harmony, and strength of spirit so important to you?
The key ideas are balance in everything, to live in harmony, and to be strong in spirit. For me, the human is important as a whole: his soul, spirit, inner light. Balance and harmony are the foundation of life. Whatever chaos is present in a human’s life, he seeks his harmonious world. Moreover, I paint the picture not consciously, I do not have a pre-planned plan. First comes color, then lines, and gradually the Soul leads to the meaning of the subject. I take on my creative work exclusively in a good mood and inspiration!
In your works, there is a dialogue about light and darkness. What do you want to say to the viewer with this?
The dialogue of light and darkness is always present in everything. Light and Darkness are not enemies, but two eternal conversationalists; their interaction creates wholeness. Darkness keeps mystery, peace, and depth, and Light reveals the essence of things. In a human, this dialogue manifests through inner experiences: we come to know our own shadows in order to feel the light of the soul more clearly. Together, they remind us that any birth comes from the union of opposites. And in this dialogue, we find harmony.
Are there artists or directions in art that particularly inspire you?
Honestly, I like all directions. I admire the vision of many artists—both famous and beginner. Each direction is unique, and to depict that is true art!
What is more important to you: recognition in competitions or the emotional response that your paintings find in people?
Everything is important! When your creativity touches hearts, it gives you wings. And when there is also recognition in international competitions—that is the highest level of skill
How do you combine the role of a mother of five children, entrepreneurial experience, and your new calling in art?
Of course it combines well, when the family supports you. I live in the rhythm of balance. My husband shares all my interests, helps with the children, in the kitchen. The older children also help around the house. The children all support my creativity. They are my first viewers!
Is there a special ritual or place where you find inspiration for your works?
A definite ritual does not exist. And the places can be different where one can draw inspiration. I love to observe everything around, to see the beautiful in every moment. The main thing is not to rush. Everything will be done in time.
How do you see your main role and mission as an artist in the modern world?
Apparently, my mission is to bring and convey to the viewer a good mood, positive thinking, beauty, and to teach them to see deeper. My role in the modern world is constructive and in some ways, it leads to reflection on non-material ideas.
What are your creative plans for the near future? Maybe a personal exhibition or a new project?
I would like to arrange a personal exhibition. Plans for projects, of course, arise, but technical questions require analysis.
