Art has the unique power to stop time, transport us to blooming gardens, and fill the soul with inner peace. Today’s guest is a talented artist whose works have earned prestigious international awards, and whose creative journey proves that following your passion is never too late. In this interview, Matanat Imanova speaks candidly about her love for nature, the lessons learned along the way, international recognition, and the sources of her endless inspiration.
Matanat, how and at what age did your creative journey begin? What was the very first impulse that made you connect your life with painting and art?
My creative journey really stretches back to childhood, when we had drawing classes at school. But only later in life, around my mid-forties, did I have the time and opportunity to truly dedicate myself to this work. What brought me to art was my love of nature, beauty, and landscapes.
Painting is about love; if you don’t love it, you can’t commit to it. It’s something that gives you joy and helps you relax.
The nature of Azerbaijan is famous for its unique beauty. How did the atmosphere and landscapes of your homeland influence your development as a landscape artist?
Azerbaijan’s nature has had a profound influence on me, but not only Azerbaijan—in New York, where I have lived, and before that in London, the beautiful parks, trees, flowers, rainy days, and sunny days have always inspired me. America’s four seasons feel very similar to Azerbaijan’s climate, and the people’s smiling faces… Because of that, I consider both countries my homelands. These places, their nature and climates, have been my source of inspiration. I love colors and working with them.
You work predominantly with acrylics, creating deep and expressive canvases. How do you manage to convey the atmosphere and the changing seasons through this medium, and how did this shape your individual style?
I started with acrylic paints, but I also work with oil paints. Using both acrylic and oil together really helps me achieve the results I want in my compositions. I haven’t used watercolors much, but now I’ve set a goal to try working with them too. I want to see what I can do with them, how to express colors better, and how they affect me. Each medium has its own place. I usually prefer acrylic, which I use more often, but I also work with oils and have tried watercolor a few times. I’ve set a goal to do more with watercolor in the future.
You studied and developed your craft by participating in various creative projects. What are the most important artistic lessons you have learned along the way?
I’ve taken part in various creative projects and exhibitions. I’ve tried to learn this and improve it, so my work becomes better. I really hope my paintings with colors turn out successfully. So, I’ve done a variety of things, taken part in different projects.
A few years ago, in New York, I took painting classes. And also some color technique lessons, which have been very helpful for me.
For many years, you have participated in exhibitions and gallery events. What main challenges have you encountered along this path, and how has this work changed your sense of color and composition?
One of the main challenges I have encountered along the way is that my work does not always fit the style or artistic vision of every gallery. Sometimes, when I presented my paintings to certain galleries, they explained that my work was not the right fit and directed me toward other galleries that might be more suitable. I realized that every gallery has its own artistic identity and specific style, and not every artwork is appropriate for every space. However, these experiences have helped me better understand the art world, find places that are more suitable for my work, and continue developing as an artist.
Your creative portfolio features a wide variety of works—from floral compositions to large-scale landscapes. Which of your paintings do you consider the most significant, and which theme is the most personal to you?
Flower compositions hold an important place in my work. I love flowers. And I also really enjoy painting landscapes, like the sea, forests, cities, streets, mountains, and different kinds of scenery. Bringing them to life with color is something I really enjoy. But I can’t single out just one piece as more important than the others. They’re all dear to me. I’ve spent hours working on each one. So they’ve all become very special to me.
It is well known that you create paintings across a wide range of landscape styles. Do you plan to try your hand at completely new genres or formats in the future?
I am also interested in exploring new artistic directions. In the future, I plan to create more works in both the abstract and animalistic genres. I have already completed a few abstract paintings, and I believe these styles will allow me to express new ideas and emotions while continuing to grow as an artist.
Your works have been exhibited at prestigious venues and participated in international competitions. How do international audiences perceive your vision of nature and art?
When people see my paintings at exhibitions, galleries, museums, or international competitions, they often ask how my works are created. They’re curious whether I paint from photographs or how I develop my compositions.
I explain that my paintings are inspired by both the beauty of nature and my personal vision. While realism is an important part of my work, I also express my own emotions and interpretation of what I see. I paint nature as I experience and feel it, transforming those impressions onto the canvas. International audiences respond with genuine curiosity and appreciation for this personal approach.
Drawing on your experience, how has interest in contemporary painting and classical landscape changed among viewers and collectors in recent years?
I believe landscape art continues to hold a special place in the hearts of both audiences and collectors. Throughout the history of art, landscapes have remained one of the most respected and enduring genres. Although contemporary art has become increasingly popular, many people still seek the peace, harmony, and emotional connection that nature-inspired paintings provide. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, landscape paintings offer viewers a sense of calm and relaxation. I believe every form of art has its own value, and both classical and contemporary landscape paintings continue to attract, inspire, and connect with people around the world.
You are a member of the Global Talent Confederation and actively participate in international cultural life. What does this membership mean to you, and how does it support your professional growth?
In 2025, I participated in the Golden Time Talent competition. I presented my painting “Wild Flowers” and was honored with second place by the jury. This recognition was a great source of inspiration for me and encouraged me to continue developing my artistic career and sharing my work with international audiences. In 2026, I submitted my works again and received another award. I am also a member of the Global Talent Confederation, which has had a very positive impact on my artistic career. It has encouraged me to approach my work more professionally, connect with artists from different countries, exchange creative ideas, and expand my international network.
Success on the international stage, including winning the Golden Time Talent competition in London, is an important milestone. What opportunities do such achievements open up for a contemporary artist?
Participating in competitions and achieving international recognition is a vital step. Being part of platforms like the Global Talent Confederation and winning awards motivates an artist to maintain a professional standard, build a global network of peers, and proudly showcase their talent worldwide.
As a direct participant in the art world, how do you see the current state and future of visual arts?
I see the future of art as diverse and inspiring. Although digital and contemporary art will continue to grow in popularity, classical landscape painting will always have its own special value. People still seek the peace and beauty that nature provides. Every artistic style has its own importance and will continue to inspire people in different ways.
What new collections are you working on today, and what main creative goals do you set for yourself in the coming years?
At the moment, I am working on a large painting inspired by the harmony of flowers, and I am almost finished with it. In the coming years, I plan to explore new subjects, continue my membership in the Global Talent Confederation, participate in competitions, and present my work in more international galleries and museums.
Conversing with Matanat Imanova makes it clear that her canvases are more than just reflections of the physical world—they are a state of soul transferred onto canvas. Through genuine devotion to her craft, the support of international platforms, and an unyielding pursuit of beauty, her art bridges cultural divides and strikes a chord in the hearts of people globally, reminding us all of the enduring values of harmony, creation, and peace.