The path of an artist is rarely a straight line. For our heroine, Guldana, it was a return to herself through years of silence, a search for courage, and the overcoming of perfectionism. Today, her works are not just canvases, but portals into the world of space, esotericism, and deep spirituality. About how stage experience helps one feel the canvas, why it is important to allow oneself “to be imperfect,” and what it means to represent one’s art on the international stage in London — in our exclusive interview.
Guldana, please tell us about your first steps in art and what became that very push that made you pick up the brush again after a long break?
Since childhood, it was important for me not just to see the world, but to preserve its moments. I loved to take photographs, to catch light, shadows, expressions, and states. Back then, I did not yet understand that I was learning to see deeper than it seems. Photography taught me the main thing — to feel the frame, to feel the space, and to find beauty in quiet, almost imperceptible states.
Art was a natural language of the soul for me. That is how I came to drawing, to painting, to creating. I did not stop being creative, but I stopped drawing because of the fear of ruining the paper or the canvas. I lacked confidence, inspiration, and professionalism. Years later, a moment came when I realized that I could no longer postpone my true path. It was a deep inner call.
I allowed myself: “To be imperfect. To be myself! I am doing this not for someone else; I am doing this for myself!”
Your professional background is very multifaceted: teaching, etiquette, acting, modeling. How, in your opinion, did your stage experience influence your painting — did it add drama, energy, or a special composition to it?
Yes, I have completely dedicated myself to creativity and art. Stage experience taught me to feel energy and space.
You focus on the themes of space and esotericism. How exactly do these deep, immaterial concepts transform into specific colors, lines, and shapes on your canvas? Is it meditation, an intuitive flow, or something else?
Space and esotericism for me are not themes, but states. Often, a work begins as a meditation: I enter into silence and begin to create. If it doesn’t work out, I don’t force myself — I take a break, get inspired, and start creating again.
What role does intuition play in your creative process? Do you have special rituals for tuning in? And at what moment of the work do you consciously switch off your knowledge of academic rules and completely trust the inner flow?
In general, I follow academic rules very little. Because it was precisely due to rules and perfectionism in drawing that I did not allow myself to create exactly what I wanted. I was afraid to make a mistake and ruin the painting. Intuition is my main guide.
Before working, I try to tune in: silence, breathing, sometimes a candle, music, sometimes just an inner dialogue with myself.
The technique of oil painting requires special patience and systematic approach. How do your materials resonate with your inner world, and what is Guldana-the-artist learning from Guldana-the-teacher in this process?
I love painting with oils for their depth and unhurriedness, for the opportunity to work in layers and create a sense of space.
Even today, while receiving recognition, I continue to learn from myself. Guldana-the-teacher teaches Guldana-the-artist discipline, while the artist returns inspiration and freedom to the teacher.
You received an invitation to present your works at the prestigious Golden Time Talent festival in London. What does this international recognition mean to you and what emotions or obligations does it evoke?
The invitation to London became a confirmation for me that the inner path can be heard by the world. It is not only joy, but also a responsibility to be honest in my art, to preserve depth, and not to lose sincerity. For me, this is a big step, my first recognition as an artist.
I am proud of myself for being able to overcome all my fears. It is like a reminder of courage and faith in oneself.
Your work is closely linked to spirituality. Do you think your art can become a tool for the viewer's self-discovery, and what is the main message you hope to convey to them?
I believe that art is capable of awakening. My works are an invitation to an inner dialogue, to silence, to self-discovery. My main message is a reminder that inside every person there is light, depth, and an infinite Universe. We are all individual and unique. Do not be afraid of your power; you are worthy of being in this world!
You are actively developing your author's brand. Which aspects of branding are most important to you? And besides paintings, in what other formats do you see the scaling of your creative vision?
For me, a brand is self-expression, the meaning and energy that I put in. It is important that every detail reflects my philosophy. I reflect my vision in creating anything: paintings, photographs, videos, chokers, looks, my style.
How do you find a balance between creativity, teaching, and other aspects of your life?
Balance for me is not a separation, but a connection. Work, creativity, family, development — these are all parts of one life.
I am learning to hear my rhythms and respect my states. I put my life off for “later” for too long. If not now, when?
What was the most memorable reaction or emotion from viewers caused by your work that convinced you of the correctness of your chosen path?
When someone says: “I saw myself in it.” In such moments, I understand that art has fulfilled its purpose.
How do you see the development of your creativity in the coming years? Do you plan to explore new themes or directions?
Yes, I want to explore new opportunities. Now, besides spirituality and space, I am interested in the themes of gothic, magic, and fantasy.
Besides drawing, I convey this aesthetic in everything I do and everything that surrounds me.
What main advice would you give to aspiring artists who are looking for their path?
Do not look for a style, create yourself.
Be honest, patient, and attentive to your inner voice.
Art begins not with technique, but with sincerity.
Do not listen to those whose views do not coincide with yours!
Do it, even if you are afraid.
Believe in yourself most of all!
