Interview with Alexandra Novik-Khamis for Academy of International Culture, Art and Literature, Egypt

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.