Margarita Kunizheva is a Dubai-based artist whose work is inspired by the timeless beauty of Japanese antique art, especially the stunning Byobu folding screens adorned with gold and silver leaf. Margarita shares her creative journey in this interview, from falling in love with these serene, luxurious artworks as a child to dedicating years to mastering the delicate craft of working with metal leaf.

She opens up about blurring traditional Japanese techniques with her modern twist, creating timeless and personal art. Margarita also talks about her desire to create paintings that bring peace, harmony, and a sense of magic to people’s homes. She reflects on the challenges of making antique-inspired art relevant for today’s audiences and her belief that art should be a lasting treasure, not just a passing trend.

I’m an artist living in Dubai and love working with gold and silver leaf. My main inspiration comes from Japanese antique art, especially the beautiful Byobu folding screens that use a lot of metal leaf. I find their peacefulness and gentle shine incredibly captivating. I try to capture that same sense of tranquility and beauty in my art. I aim to blend traditional techniques with a modern twist, creating pieces that invite you to take a moment to appreciate the beauty around us.

1.   What drew you to the beauty of Byobu, and how does it inspire your art today?    

I first encountered antique Japanese folding screens as a child, and I was instantly captivated by their beauty. It felt like nothing I had ever seen—so exquisite and luxurious. That moment sparked a deep desire in me to create something similar. Japanese art is all about precision and skill, and working with gold leaf is incredibly challenging. I dedicated years to honing my craft, practicing tirelessly to capture the same beauty and elegance that inspired me as a child. My journey reflects my passion for this art form and the dedication it takes to create something truly special.

I dedicated years to honing my craft, practicing tirelessly to capture the same beauty and elegance that inspired me as a child.

Margarita Kunizheva

2.   How do you balance traditional techniques with contemporary methods in your creative process?  

When inspired by something, I always strive to filter it through my perspective to create a unique version of the artwork. It’s crucial for me to convey my vision, as this makes art genuinely unique. I think of this process as a filter: I absorb the inspiration, process it internally, and then craft something magical. This approach not only helps me express my individuality but also allows me to create paintings that resonate with my personal experiences and emotions.

3.   Your work often reflects serene landscapes and ethereal nature. What emotions do you hope to evoke in your audience?   

I want my paintings to radiate harmony. For me, home is a sanctuary, calm and comfort. I would never hang anything disturbing on my wall. My art is meant to soothe and bring a sense of magic. It’s never about trends and fashion; my art exists outside of time and trends.

4.   What challenges have you faced in reinterpreting an antique art form for modern audiences?  

I believe we live in an era of oversaturation. We purchase too much, and an overwhelming amount of options are available in the market. The same thing is happening in the art world. Many people opt for trendy artwork for their interiors, which may become irrelevant in a few years and will likely be discarded. I think that art should be a long-term investment. There should be a sense of love that develops around a painting: it should resonate with its viewer and become a cherished part of their environment.

My art is meant to soothe and bring a sense of magic. It’s never about trends and fashion, my art exists outside of time and trends.

Margarita Kunizheva

5.  How does your fascination with Japanese folding screens shape your creative identity?    

I draw inspiration from ancient masters, particularly artists who created Japanese gold screens many years ago. Their artworks have been sold at auctions for significant amounts of money. I see great value in them and believe that such art is meant to be cherished forever. I hope that one day, my paintings achieve the same kind of enduring significance.

6.   What has exhibited in prestigious galleries worldwide taught you about the universal appeal of your work?  

Participating in international exhibitions has taught me a great deal. In some countries, my paintings received a very positive response, but there were also unsuccessful exhibitions. From all of this, I learned that artwork is not just about aesthetics; there must be chemistry, just like with people. Something inside needs to resonate, and then, in any country, you can find your audience.

Margarita Kunizheva’s art is about more than beauty—creating something that feels calm, meaningful, and lasting. By blending traditional techniques with her modern touch, she offers a unique perspective that stands apart from trends. Her work reminds us of the joy art can bring and the lasting connections it can create in our lives. To learn more about Margarita, click the following links to visit her profile.

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