The Value of Long Term Investment in Creativity | Margarita Kunizheva

Margarita Kunizheva is a Dubai-based artist who is inspired by the elegance of Japanese Byobu folding screens. In this interview, Margarita shares her journey of falling in love with the serene beauty of antique Japanese art and how it shaped her passion for working with gold and silver leaf. She talks about balancing traditional techniques with her own modern touch, creating art that radiates harmony and timelessness. She also opens up about her dedication to craftsmanship, her desire to evoke a sense of calm in her audience, and her belief in art as a cherished, enduring investment.

Margarita Kunizheva is a featured artist in our book “101 Art Book: Animal Edition.” You can explore her journey and the stories of other artists by purchasing the book here: https://shop.artstoheartsproject.com/products/the-creative-process-book

I’m an artist living in Dubai, and I 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. In my art, I try to capture that same sense of tranquility and beauty. 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 before—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.

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.

Margarita Kunizheva

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

When I am inspired by something, I always strive to filter it through my own perspective to create a unique version of the artwork. Its crucial for me to convey my vision, as this is what makes art truly unique. I like to 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 resonates 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 would like my paintings to radiate harmony. For me, home is a sanctuary, a place of 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 there’s an overwhelming amount of options available in the market. The same thing is happening in the art world. Many people opt for trendy artworks for their interiors, which may become irrelevant in a few years and will likely end up being 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.

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.

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 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 exhibiting in prestigious galleries worldwide taught you about the universal appeal of your work?

Participating in international exhibitions has taught me a great deal. There are countries where 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 more than just beautiful—it’s a reminder of the importance of finding calm and meaning in a fast-paced world. By blending her love for Japanese traditions with her own modern style, she creates works that stand the test of time. Her story shows us how art can be a source of comfort and connection, no matter where we are. To learn more about Margarita, click the following links to visit her profile.

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