Archive for 2023

Wrote by Alexandra Novik-Khamis

Dear artists of the art department and the artistic culture department, today we will talk about the artist Alexandra Novik-Khamis.

Alexandra Novik-Khamis is an established international artist who creates contemporary conceptual art with a classical touch. Alexandra is from Russia. From early childhood, she showed great interest in drawing and photography, which was noticed by her parents, who tried to encourage her interest in art and develop her artistic abilities. At the age of ten she began attending the Smolensk Art School, and at the age of sixteen she entered the Faculty of Fine Arts and Graphics of the Smolensk State University.

Five years of university study and self-development improved her skills, gave her a deep knowledge of art methods and techniques, and helped her develop her artistic style and vision of “life in art.” In addition, Alexandra took several master classes from famous Russian artists and began to learn more about realism, her favorite artistic style.

She now lives, works and helps develop art in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

During her 14 years in Bahrain, she opened an art studio, organized several exhibitions, was recognized as one of the most successful businesswomen in the Gulf, wrote a book of educational materials on art, and painted more than 500 works of art. Now she is also engaged in illustrating books by Arab and European authors.

Alexandra works primarily with oil and acrylic paints on canvas. However, it is known that she also stands out for her works in watercolors and graphics. As a contemporary conceptual artist, her work consists of strong, bold lines and vibrant colors combined with an emphasis on space. Her specialty is creating large-scale portraits, landscapes and still lifes for homes, corporate offices, leisure facilities and boutiques.

Over the years, Alexandra has grown and developed as an accomplished contemporary artist. Collectors and dealers who follow her art career say that Alexandra's work is constantly evolving.

Her oil and acrylic art is a reflection of her personal thoughts, emotions, struggles and triumphs. Perhaps this is her autobiographical visual novel.

With each stroke, she frees a part of herself to clear what is no longer needed and open to what was meant to be. Her work is offered for sale directly through her online gallery on her webpage.

What inspires you?

As an artist from Russia currently living in Bahrain, I find inspiration in the fascinating combination of cultures and landscapes that surround me. The vibrant colors and patterns of traditional Bahraini architecture combined with the dynamic energy of the bustling souks and the tranquil beauty of the desert leave an indelible imprint on my artistic vision.

I am also inspired by my Russian heritage, drawing on the rich history of Russian art and its profound influence on my creative expression. Captivating stories and folklore, ethereal landscapes, and emotions conveyed by Russian artists throughout history inspire me to bring depth and meaning to my work.

Overall, the combination of Bahraini culture, Russian heritage and my personal experiences forms the fabric of inspiration that drives my creativity, allowing me to create art that resonates with others on a deep level.

I am an art teacher and also a freelance artist. Besides my teaching career, I continue to improve my creativity every year.

What are the most important aspects of your job?

Art teaching and mentoring give special meaning to my life. I believe that the arts have the power to transform not only a student's creativity, but also their overall academic performance. Mastery of art not only gives students confidence but also inspires them to new heights. When fiction is turned into a visual novel, it is not only beautiful, but it also helps students feel worthwhile. Their self-esteem and confidence grows as they progress in the arts.

Are there any challenges in the art world and how have you overcome them?

On my creative path, I have encountered my fair share of problems in the art world. One of the main challenges is navigating the art market, which can be highly competitive and saturated with talented people. Standing out and getting recognition in this huge creative space can be challenging.

To overcome these problems, I adopted several strategies:

The first and most basic thing is continuous learning: I believe in the importance of continuous learning and improving your artistic skills. I am constantly looking for opportunities to expand my knowledge through workshops, courses and interactions with other artists. This helps me stay up to date with the latest trends, techniques and concepts in the art world, allowing me to push my boundaries and create innovative work.

The second is creating a support network. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people and a supportive community can make a big difference. I actively participate in art shows, network with other artists, and collaborate with local arts organizations. Through these interactions, I found invaluable support, feedback, and collaboration opportunities that pushed my creative path forward.

It's also what I call embracing individuality: understanding that my unique voice and point of view are my greatest assets, I try to stay true to my artistic vision. I embrace my cultural heritage, integrate it with the influences of living in Bahrain, and create work that authentically reflects my personality. By embracing my individuality, I stand out in the art world and attract those who appreciate my individual artistic expression.

An important strategy is adaptability: the art world is constantly evolving, and it is important to adapt and use new technologies and trends. I am exploring different technologies, trying different techniques and using digital platforms to reach a wider audience. By embracing innovation and incorporating it into my creative practice, I remain relevant and connect with a diverse audience.

Perseverance and flexibility. The art world can be complex and unpredictable, but maintaining a flexible mindset is critical. I remind myself that failure and rejection are part of the journey and use them as opportunities to grow. I remain persistent in achieving my creative goals, overcoming obstacles and finding inspiration even in the face of adversity.

These strategies help me overcome challenges in the art world.

What are the most important themes and subjects that you use in your work?

As an artist from Russia living in Bahrain, I find great inspiration in the unique combination of cultures and experiences that surround me. I explore many topics in my work, but there are a few that have particular meaning to me.

One important topic that I often delve into is the concept of cultural diversity and the beauty of multiculturalism. Living in Bahrain, I am always surrounded by different traditions, languages and customs. I strive to capture the essence of this cultural mosaic in my art and celebrate the harmonious coexistence of different identities.

Another area of my work is the study of nature and its relationship with humanity. From pristine beaches to vibrant desert, Bahrain's stunning landscapes are an endless source of inspiration. I strive to create works of art that highlight our connection to the natural world and remind viewers of the importance of conservation and stewardship of the environment.

Finally, as an artist who deeply values personal growth and emotional expression, I often explore themes of self-discovery and introspection. Through my art, I aim to evoke emotion and encourage viewers to reflect on their inner journeys, inviting them to explore their thoughts and feelings.

These themes, among others, shape my artistic vision and allow me to share my unique perspective. I hope my work resonates with people of different backgrounds and inspires them to embrace diversity, appreciate nature, and embark on their own creative journey.

Which art school influenced you?

I love different styles and their combination. But perhaps I will especially highlight the Russian avant-garde. This style had a profound influence on my artistic style. Artists such as Kazimir Malevich and Wassily Kandinsky, with their bold use of geometric shapes and vibrant colors, shaped my understanding of abstract art and its ability to express feelings and ideas beyond the image.

In addition, I love the traditional Russian arts, such as folk art.

The intricate detail and spiritual symbolism inherent in these art forms has inspired me to bring a sense of depth and meaning to my work.

Living in Bahrain, I am also influenced by the local art scene and the vibrant cultural life of the region. The vibrant colors, intricate patterns and lines of Islamic art are a constant source of inspiration for me. The combination of traditional Arabic aesthetics and modern elements has pushed me to experiment with different techniques and mediums, creating a unique combination in my work.

In your opinion, is the artist a product of academic learning or a product of the creative state?

In my opinion, an artist is a product of academic study and a creative state. While an academic education provides a solid foundation and technical skills, the creative state is where true artistic expression flourishes.

Academic training plays a vital role in improving artistic skills, teaching various techniques and providing a comprehensive understanding of art history. It provides artists with the tools to effectively communicate their ideas and visions. Through disciplined training, artists can explore different materials, experiment with techniques, and develop a deeper understanding of the principles of art.

However, it is the creative state that truly brings art to life. It is a state of mind in which artists exploit their imagination, emotions and personal experiences. This is where unique creative voices emerge, ideas are born and originality flourishes. The creative state allows artists to express themselves authentically, push boundaries, and create work that resonates with others on a deep level.

By combining academic learning with a creative state, artists can achieve a fine balance. They can use their technical skills to bring their artistic visions to life while allowing their creativity to guide them. The synergy of these two elements results in the creation of meaningful and impactful art.

Ultimately, an artist is a product of lifelong learning, self-discovery, and an unwavering passion for creativity. The harmonious interaction of academic learning and the creative state shapes the artist, allowing him to develop, innovate and leave his unique mark on the world.

What solo exhibitions have you held and where?

I organized several exhibitions in Bahrain. But one is closest to me. This is an exhibition that took place in the financial marina - “Tuareg: Secrets of the Desert”! This collection of paintings is a celebration of the fascinating Tuareg people, a nomadic tribe with a rich cultural heritage in the Sahara.

In this exhibition, I sought to portray the beauty, resilience and mystery of the Tuareg through my art. Each painting captures the essence of their unique identity, showcasing their colorful traditional clothing, intricate jewelry and proud demeanor. Through my brushstrokes, I aimed to capture their striking features, covered in desert sand, and their vibrant eyes, which spoke volumes about their history and experiences.

In addition, this exhibition aims to highlight lesser-known aspects of the Tuareg lifestyle. Each painting in this exhibition is an invitation to immerse yourself in their world, to feel connected to the vastness of the desert and its secrets.

What is your contribution to the arts in the Middle East as well as on the world stage?

As a Russian artist living in Bahrain, as well as an art teacher and director of international work at International Action ART under the auspices of UNESCO, I strive to contribute at various levels of the visual arts community, both in the Middle East and internationally.

Locally, I have been and continue to be actively involved in promoting and supporting the local art scene in Bahrain. Through workshops, seminars and exhibitions, I aim to develop and encourage emerging artists by providing them with the opportunity to showcase their work and gain knowledge. As an art teacher, I strive to foster creativity and artistic expression in my students by helping them develop their skills and discover their unique artistic voice.

At the international level, as head of the international division of International Action ART under the auspices of UNESCO, I collaborate with artists from different countries, organizing art exhibitions, cultural exchanges and joint projects.

These initiatives aim to promote intercultural understanding, promote dialogue and showcase the talents of artists from Bahrain and around the world. By facilitating these international connections, I hope to create a platform for artists to share their vision, experiences and perspectives, and contribute to the development of the global arts community.

In addition, I actively participate in international art events and exhibitions, showcasing my work and interacting with artists from different walks of life.

By supporting emerging artists, organizing exhibitions and participating in international events, I strive to make a positive impact on the art world and promote the growth and recognition of fine art in Bahrain and beyond.

What ideas do you want to convey through your work?

One of the main themes I explore is the power of cultural inclusion and the beauty of diversity. My stay in Bahrain, a country with a rich diversity of cultures, inspired me to create art that celebrates the harmonious coexistence of different traditions, languages and customs. I want to convey a message of unity and remind viewers of the beauty that occurs when cultures intertwine and influence each other.

Another theme that permeates my work is the relationship between nature and spirituality.

I believe my art carries the message of finding beauty in the connections that unite us. Whether it's our connection to nature, the shared human experience, or the universal feelings that bind us together, I strive to highlight the common threads that run through our lives. I want my art to serve as a reminder that we are all part of a whole and that our actions and choices affect not only ourselves, but the world around us.

At its core, the message I want to convey to the world is one of unity, compassion, and celebrating diversity. Through my art, I hope to inspire viewers to embrace these values, connect with each other on a deeper level, and contribute to creating a more harmonious and compassionate world.

We now leave it to you to view the works of the artist Alexandra, and in support of her valuable art, we have confirmed the authenticity of her creative biography and her merits.

Wrote by Alexandra Novik-Khamis

Artists often wonder whether to title their art. The answer to that question is absolutely positively YES.

Well, let me tell you, giving your creation a title is an absolute game-changer! It adds a touch of inspiration and allure to your masterpiece. Imagine this scenario: you stumble upon two equally stunning artworks, both equally priced. However, one of them is gracefully named while the other remains untitled. Which one would you be more inclined to purchase? Most people find themselves irresistibly drawn to the titled artwork, as it provides a deeper connection and an extra layer of meaning. So, let's dive into the wonderful world of titling your art, shall we?

One of the remarkable advantages of giving your art a title is the power of searchability. When your masterpiece carries a captivating title, it becomes a beacon for discovery on popular search engines like Google. On the other hand, untitled art might get lost in the vast virtual realm. We want your art to be seen by as many eyes as possible, so let's unlock its full potential! Now, let's dive into the enchanting realm of creating remarkable titles. Wonder no more, as I'm here to share some basic tips and guidelines on how to craft the perfect title for your art.

Together, we'll unlock the secrets to captivating and enticing the world with your extraordinary creations!

Titles save time. Many people don't like trying to figure out what art is about. A title gives them a starting point, a reason to slow down and take a closer look.
Choose titles that make your art more accessible by hinting at or giving clues to what it's about, but of course it could be unusual as well.
Stand up for your art. Tell it like it is. Strong titles reflect what inspires you to make it, what personal beliefs it represents, what messages it is meant to communicate, and why we should look at and think about it. Grab people's attention; make sure they get the point.
Think about using titles that provide specific information about art. Many people are too shy, afraid, or embarrassed to ask what untitled art is about, even if they like it. Or they just plain pass it by because they decide they'll have get it. Titles at least give viewers some chances to understand what they're looking at.
If a composition has identifiable proper names in it, like geographical locations, landmarks, species of plants or animals or sea life, people, objects, and so on, think seriously about including those names in your title. That way, your art might come up in search results for those proper names. For example, someone searching for information about Bahrain or Middle East might find your painting in their search results, and like it so much that they decide to look at more of your art, or maybe even contact you.
Good titles help people to recognize and appreciate aspects of your art that may not be immediately obvious. For example, a figure painting might be about family, memories, growing up, or inspiring experiences. But without a title, viewers may never get the chance to fully experience those aspects of the work. Titles help viewers see what you want them to see.
If possible, use titles that have some connection to the visual content or composition of the work as opposed to ones that are completely unrelated to what the art looks like. Titles that clearly connect with the art at least keep viewers in the game.
Then again, cryptic titles that do not obviously or immediately relate to the compositions or subject matters of your art can sometimes work in your favor. But they have to be well-thought-out. Good ones can intrigue viewers to the point where they spend time trying to figure out their meanings, like captivating mysteries or riddles.

Use titles that seduce viewers into taking longer looks, and maybe even ask questions. Unexpected or uncommon titles engage viewers in ways that ordinary or common titles don't. Some artists' titles are so unconventional that people look at more artworks just to see how they're titled.
Unusual words or word combinations tend to attract more interest and attention than ordinary ones. At the very least, they slow people down. These kinds of titles also have better chances of appearing higher up in search results because of their uniqueness. Be careful though. You want to use these kinds of words only when they relate directly to something about your art, and not use them gratuitously or to try and game the art system.
Make every title different. In a way, every title is one more clue to you as an artist as well as to what your art is about. Not only do viewers appreciate a unique and individual titles, but a diversity of titles when taken together can offer insight into your thought processes and perspectives, and help people to better connect with and appreciate you as an artist. Having a different title for every piece of your art also maximizes the number of opportunities for your overall body of work to appear in search results.
- Gallery owners really like titles. And they really really like titles that increase viewers' interest in the art. Plus good titles make their job easier when it comes to selling the work. And think about this... how do you expect galleries to list individual works online, in emails, or on price lists if none of them have titles?
- Titles not only serve purposes now, but also into the future. Perhaps the most useful is that they make tracking the histories, locations, and owners of specific works of art easier for curators, researchers, scholars, and historians (and for galleries and collectors as well).
- Lastly, a couple of don'ts. Avoid numerical titles. Not only do they provide little or no information about the art, but they also can't be searched. Similarly, don't use the same title over and over again followed by letters or numbers to distinguish one work from the next, like Urban Landscape 1, Urban Landscape 2, Urban Landscape 3, and so on. They limit opportunities for people to find your art.
- Don't use "Untitled" as a title. Not only does it fail to distinguish one artwork from the next, but it also pretty much eliminates the chances of anyone finding it online.

Wrote by Alexandra Novik-Khamis

Know how to write about your art is important...

Humans have this amazing ability to connect and express themselves through words. Whenever we come across something new and puzzling, we naturally turn to asking questions or searching for information to gain a better understanding. We gather and process both written and spoken words, which play a vital role in shaping our opinions, making decisions, and ultimately taking action.

Now, let's talk about art! Art tends to be a fascinating realm that often leaves people with questions. It's incredible how many individuals have a strong desire to unravel the mysteries and intricacies of art. I've personally encountered countless people who are fond of art but simply need a little guidance to comprehend it fully. So, how can I assist you in exploring and understanding the wonderful world of art?

The Internet has revolutionized the presentation of art by breaking down geographical barriers and reaching a global audience. Unlike before, art is no longer limited to a specific region or a select group of individuals. It has now become accessible to anyone and everyone, regardless of their level of knowledge or interest in art. This incredible shift means that even those with a mild curiosity about art can now explore the entire world to discover the artworks and artists that captivate and inspire them the most.

Considering this exciting change, it is important to consider how it affects your online profile.

You never know where an incredible opportunity might arise or who could potentially become a buyer or admirer of your art. It's essential to ensure that all interested parties have a fair chance to quickly and effortlessly learn about you and your work. And the key to achieving that is through effective writing.

It's crucial not to fall into the common trap that many artists do, assuming that someone needs is to see your art for an instant and overwhelming connection to occur. While visuals are undoubtedly powerful, providing context and information through writing enhances the overall experience and understanding of your art. Let's work together to create engaging written content that complements and amplifies the impact of your artwork!

When it comes to engaging with first-time viewers, it's essential to capture their attention within the first 30 seconds or, at most, a couple of minutes. In the fast-paced online world, people's attention spans are remarkably short. Therefore, it's crucial to employ strategies that convince potential admirers to pause, slow down, and delve deeper into your art.

The responsibility lies with you to provide the right words and explanations that captivate their interest and encourage further exploration. By crafting compelling and concise content, you can effectively convey the essence of your art, enticing viewers to invest more time and attention.

A well-crafted introduction and description of your art can make a significant impact, potentially leading to valuable sales and returns on your investment. It's vital not to underestimate the power of well-written content. Choosing inadequate or inferior writing, or even leaving it out entirely, can undermine the presentation of your art. You deserve to showcase your work in the best possible light, and that includes having compelling and engaging written materials to accompany it.

Wrote by Alexandra Novik-Khamis

Artists may become frustrated when they discover their artwork is being used or reproduced without consent. As artwork finds its way into various media like print, TV, video, film, the internet, or even as a part of other artists' creations, unauthorized usage has become increasingly common. While such usages typically infringe on the artist's copyright, the question arises whether or not to take any action—legal or otherwise. Opinions on this topic can vary greatly. Let me share some of my thoughts on this matter:
In today's fast-paced digital world where images can be shared globally in an instant, artists are increasingly finding their artwork used or reproduced without permission. While this can be a violation of the artist's copyright, it's crucial to carefully consider the potential benefits that may come from exposure in various contexts. Addressing infringement on a case-by-case basis is recommended, as each situation is unique.
Many times, taking legal action against unauthorized usage is not the most productive course of action. If the improper use is primarily for personal gain, seeking legal remedies may be necessary. However, there are instances where permitting the use of artwork in return for exposure, credit, or promotion can be advantageous for an artist's career.

Unintended consequences can arise from persistent legal battles, such as companies becoming wary of utilizing artwork in their media. Instead, a measured approach involving selective partnerships and decisions can be more fruitful for artists, providing much-needed exposure and networking opportunities.
Here are some tips when handling your artwork in various contexts:

Be receptive to art reproduction for wider audiences and potential benefits.
Early in your career, opting for free usage can increase exposure and collaboration opportunities.
Prioritize permissions for high-profile requests and demonstrate flexibility.
Consider waiving fees for significant publicity or exposure opportunities, especially early in your career.
Charge for usage when your name or artwork is being leveraged for commercial gains.
Exercise caution before pursuing legal action and explore amicable resolutions first.
Maintain a reputation for being easy to work with and avoid frequent legal threats.
Ensure proper credit and, when possible, request users to provide your contact information for interested parties.

As an artist, carefully weighing your options and seizing the right opportunities can make a difference in your career. Seek out mutually beneficial agreements and always remember the value of reputation and networking in the world of art.