Nona Papashvili is an artist who transforms needle and thread into dazzling expressions of emotion and beauty. Her journey, which started with childhood play, became a lifelong devotion—a process she describes as essential as "breathing." A self-taught master of unique techniques (including cross-stitch, ribbons, and water embroidery), Nona Papashvili creates pieces inspired by women’s strength and deep human feelings. Her powerful work has earned international acclaim, including the prestigious Botticelli Prize and an exhibition at the Louvre in Paris. In this interview, she shares her passion, her creative process, and her belief in art as a universal language for peace and unity.
Nona, could you tell us how your artistic journey began? What inspired you to pick up a needle and thread?
My artistic journey began very simply – with sewing clothes for dolls. At first, it was just a game, but gradually it became my way of expressing imagination and beauty. With every stitch, I discovered that I could create small worlds of color and form, and that process gave me endless joy.
When did you realize that art had become more than just a hobby and an essential part of your life?
I am a self-taught artist, so every new technique came from curiosity and experimentation. I was always drawn to materials that could shine, reflect, or create unusual textures. Step by step, I explored cross-stitch, ribbon embroidery, diamond work, and even water embroidery. Each of them gave me a different way to express emotion.
I realized it the moment I understood that art was not something I “did,” but something I “lived.” Whenever I was away from it, I felt incomplete. Slowly, it became clear that this was not a pastime, but an inseparable part of who I am.
Your works are created using unique techniques — cross-stitch, ribbons, diamond work (rhinestones), and water embroidery. How did you discover and develop these forms?
How does a new idea for a piece come to you? What inspires you the most — nature, people, emotions?
Inspiration comes to me from everywhere — a flower, a woman’s silhouette, a fleeting emotion, even a color I see in nature. Most of all, it is emotions that drive me. I try to translate feelings into shapes and colors that others can connect with.
Do you have a favorite piece of art — perhaps one you feel especially emotionally connected to?
Every piece is precious to me, because I put part of myself into each one. But I feel a special connection to works that reflect women’s strength and sensitivity. These creations carry both my admiration for beauty and my inner dialogue with life.
In your Confederation profile, you mentioned that art is like breathing to you. Could you elaborate on what that comparison means personally?
Art is like breathing because it is essential for my existence. Just as we cannot live without air, I cannot imagine life without creating. It is a universal language that transcends time, borders, and nationality, connecting people through emotion.
Your works have been exhibited in countries such as Japan, Spain, Armenia, Malaysia, and the Netherlands. Which exhibitions or projects have been especially meaningful to you?
Every exhibition has its own meaning, but several are especially dear to me. My collaboration with First Wish Art Gallery opened doors to wonderful opportunities — in Spain, Rome, Armenia, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Jordan, and Dubai. Most recently, I am very excited to have my works shown in Berlin, which feels like another milestone. Of course, participating in Art Shopping at the Louvre in Paris in 2024 was unforgettable — a dream that became reality.
You actively promote your art through participation in international competitions and projects, receiving prestigious awards. Which of these accolades mean the most to you, and why?
The Botticelli Prize in Florence and the Leonardo da Vinci Prize in Milan were very special to me, because they connected my name to two of the greatest artists in history. The Aivazovsky Prize also touched me deeply, since my art has a close relationship with nature and emotion, much like his.
How do you feel about the international recognition of your work? Has it influenced your motivation or creative direction?
International recognition fills me with gratitude and responsibility. It motivates me to create even more and to constantly improve my art. At the same time, it reminds me that art truly has no borders — people everywhere can feel and understand it. I am also honored that my original works are kept in the embassies of different countries, including in private collections of diplomats. This is another way art connects nations and cultures.
You often participate in projects dedicated to peace and unity. What role do you believe an artist plays in creating harmony in the world?
Artists carry a special responsibility — to remind the world of beauty, humanity, and compassion. Art is one of the most powerful tools for unity, because it speaks directly to the heart. I believe every brushstroke or stitch can be a message of peace.
