Gunay Ibishova is an artist whose passion for fine art, rooted in childhood, has recently blossomed into a full-fledged professional career. After many years of nurturing her creative spirit parallel to a structured life, 2024 became the year when she first entered the exhibition scene. In this interview, Gunay talks about her lifelong love for painting, the unique sensory connections that feed her art, and her ambitious goals—to bring her works to world platforms, such as the Venice Biennale.
Gunay, you have had a deep passion for fine art since childhood. What or who exactly ignited that spark, and at what point did you realize that painting was not just a hobby, but your calling?
In fact, in my childhood, I thought it was just a hobby. Even when I was engaged in music and took piano lessons, it couldn’t distract me from painting. My parents always supported me. Although I tried my hand in the field of fine art related to music, nothing could stand in the way of my interest in painting. Whenever I saw a painting, I was always interested in the technique used. I listened to artists talk about their creative lives and works on television, hoping to learn something useful for myself. The love for art inside me kept calling me.
You mentioned that the smell of paint gives you special pleasure. Could you describe how this sensory experience is connected to your creative process and emotions?
Some people enjoy the smell of the earth after the rain, others — the aroma of flowers and various other smells. The smell of oil paint gives me a feeling of happiness and enriches my soul. Through the works that I create with this feeling, I can convey these emotions to the viewers. I love studios because of their smell — a similar creative spirit and love for creation reigns there, which unites like-minded people.
Your professional development began in 2024. What was the catalyst for the transition from years of drawing to your "first professional steps"?
When I saw the announcement for the first exhibition in 2024, I thought, “Why not let this be the beginning?” My application was accepted. Seeing my works next to the works of other artists and presenting them to the public was an unforgettable feeling — and it gave me the motivation to continue. Later, in 2025, I participated in a second group exhibition. After that exhibition, I decided to professionally improve my skills in academic drawing and painting, because, in my opinion, just being able to draw well is not enough. This is simply a gift of fate that I must take advantage of, make it my own, unique. It is incredible that I can draw, and I am grateful for this miracle.
What serves as your main source of inspiration? Is it emotions, nature, music, or perhaps the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan?
All the colors that exist in nature inspire me. But my favorite moment is sitting in front of the canvas on a rainy day, watching the sky through the window while the rain is falling. I don’t always need a specific trigger to feel inspired. When I don’t draw for a long time, my heart, my hands, and my soul start yearning for it. For me, it is both a passion and an addiction.
"For me, canvas and brushes are not just tools, but a means of expressing my inner world and emotions." How do you choose the theme or subject for a new work? Do you have a special signature technique or style that you are actively exploring?
Most of all in painting, I love a unified background color and a rich variety of tones. Of course, the subjects may change, but there is a certain stylistic consistency felt in my works. I like to highlight just one part or element. However, the technique often changes. I have been working in this field for 2 years and I feel that I am only starting to discover my own technique and style. I like that every artist has their own unique signature.
You noted that "viewers may simply see a painting, but effort, time, and feelings are hidden in each of my works." What is the main emotional message you strive to convey to the viewer?
I don’t like creating works that leave the viewer with anxious or confusing emotions. I prefer clarity and directness. I want the viewer to be able to understand what I am trying to express. Different emotions are combined in some paintings, but viewers interpret them according to their own inner world and character.
Your work "Matador" took 2nd place in the Golden Time Talent competition. What inspired you to create this particular painting, and what does it symbolize for you?
Initially, it was just a client order, but it became popular both on social media and in real life. It brought me success at the competition and gave the work special meaning. At the same time, this work helped me find my style. It guided me. In my childhood, I was very fascinated by matadors and sometimes watched them. At that time, I did not even imagine that my future work “Matador” would bring me success.
What does your typical workday or creative session look like? Do you prefer to work in silence and solitude, or do you need a specific atmosphere?
All I need is enough free time and a calm environment. Sometimes I even hesitate to work in a studio because I want to be in complete solitude. The only extra sound I can tolerate is quiet music in the background, because any other noise disrupts my concentration and thoughts.
Since 2024, you have been actively participating in national exhibitions in Azerbaijan. What is it like to present your art in your homeland?
These are just the first steps. I believe that I will achieve great success both in my homeland and on the international arena. There is a level I want to reach in my country, and I am working hard for it, because I want to be one of the best. In the future, when my name is mentioned, I want my works of art to immediately come to people’s minds. Or when someone sees one of my works, I want them to instantly recognize it as mine.
You have successfully presented your works internationally: in Izmir and most recently in Tokyo. What do you see as the main difference and value of participating in international projects?
One of the most wonderful feelings was seeing the joy of my parents about it. This is truly one of the most priceless emotions. At the same time, these are the first steps towards my future plans. If my works are already valued and presented now, of course, that is something that makes me happy. Presenting my works abroad is a great source of pride. As an artist, it is a way to present myself and showcase my art to a wider audience.
Do you have a dream exhibition or project—a country, a gallery, or a format—where you would especially like to showcase your art?
One of the projects I dream of taking part in is the Venice Biennale. The Venice Biennale is one of the most prestigious and famous international art events in the world. I believe that exhibiting one’s works there is a dream for every artist. I sincerely hope that I will achieve this goal one day.
What themes or techniques are you planning to explore in the near future? What is your global goal in art for the next five years?
In the next five years, I want to continue the training I have planned to raise my professional level and create more sophisticated works. There are many prestigious events both internationally and domestically, and I strive to participate in international projects and exhibitions. One of my goals is to hold a solo exhibition in Azerbaijan and the UK.
Gunay Ibishova’s path is an inspiring testament that a true calling will always find its time and place. She demonstrates that professional recognition has no expiration date, and the depth and sincerity of emotions invested in the work are the key to international success. Having only begun her professional development in 2024, Gunay Ibishova has already managed to conquer exhibition venues in Azerbaijan and globally, using the “language” of paints to convey positivity and clarity. Her mission is simple yet profound: to bring light and beauty, helping viewers see deeper and perceive art as a source of happiness.