OCA MAGAZINE #36 PEOPLE

PEOPLE

BUILDING THE LANDBRIDGE

VICTORIA LEVIN

SECRET OF SUCCESS OF ISRAEL STAR WRITER, PUBLICIST & DRAMATURGE

[ EURASIA ]

WITH EURASIA

3 PERFORMING ARTISTS 6 PUBLIC FIGURES 14 ARTISTS 17 WRITERS

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ISSN 2053-1036 RRP: £20.00 / $25.00 WWW.OCAMAGAZINE.COM ESTABLISHED 2009

OCA

20-23 NOVEMBER 2020

SPAIN

OPEN EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA BOOK FORUM & LITERATURE FESTIVAL

OPEN EURASIAN BOOK FORUM & LITERARY FESTIVAL

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FROM THE EDITOR changed the Eurasian region, and who continue to do so today, We want to showcase the very best of what the region has to offer and hope that this will bring renewed interest to the region, its people and their continued efforts to bring about a better world. Inside this issue, you will find the candid interviews of painters and poets, artists and architects, writers and musicians, among others. There are people from across the whole spectrum of Eurasian countries, and I’m really pleased to see a large number of women recognised, more than 60% of the roll of honour. In these times of great division, it can be hard to remember that great diversity exists among our populations and is recognised and beneficial for our society. I hope this edition goes some way to bring some hope and positivity into that discussion.

The nominations for inclusion in this edition of OCA People were chosen by the ECG Executive board and my thanks go to those in the team who helped to collate the interviews. Editing was kindly done by Laura Hamilton, Timur Akhmedjanov and Gareth stamp.

I hope you enjoy this special issue and congratulate those who have made the cut. No doubt the coming years will bring many more names to that list.

And of course, it could be you!

WELCOME WORD Dear Reader, As anyone who has visited Central Asia and the Eurasian continent will know, behind the facades of splendid and majestic architecture and amidst the breathtaking scenery of the mountains and steppe, live an awe-inspiring people who have, over the centuries, carved out a culture, way of life and history that is remarkable.

Although the region may not have had so much prominence in the modern era, largely due to geopolitical events, its rich history has left behind influences that are far-reaching. Whether the stories of Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, or Ulugh Beg still captivate you with their epic achievements or if you admire the religious prophets who once roamed these lands in search of believers, you will find the people of the region today are equally inspiring. Many have followed their nomadic roots and now live and practice their work across the globe, which is bringing yet more recognition further afield.

Yours, Nick Rowan Editor-in-Chief

It is with great pleasure therefore that I can introduce you to OCA Magazine’s special edition, “OCA People”, which solely aims to celebrate, remember and disseminate the names and great achievements of those whose lives have influenced and

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PUBLIC FIGURE in Stockholm. When Latvia took independence from the Soviet Union I worked with several projects, one of informative tourism Catalogue “Via Baltic”, developed 37 workshops in all Baltic states to teach us art and craft techniques for individual conchas and subconscious mind development and art /craft stalls.

2005 I moved into the UK and started all my life from the point of zero. As most of the people then migrate hee without any English language, worked first 3 years several paces the same time in catering sector most of the time 16h in a day, then move in to care sector when soon start working in NHS high-security mental health hospitals, and I loved the work I did until 2016 had a major mental and physical breakdown due to several life situations and I was locked in “bed band” nearly for 3yeas as my body movement occurred really limited.

ECG: Tell us about yourself and your activity/work AF: As a former Olympian, I will never forget the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games finals closing ceremony, where I saw and experienced thousands of people in the arena from all over the world as well as millions of viewers watching from their Television.

This feeling of union ship will always remain inside me as this has now become my passion and desire in working hard to create peaceful and united communities living together in support of one another and embracing cultures and differences to learn from each other.

ANASTASIA FOX Founder of CIC ” Communities Art of Life” Humanitarian, NLP Master practitioner certificate Coach, Public speaker, Well-being Mentor / Coach, Performed in NHS High-security hospitals - art therapist.

Farmer Olympic athlete – the Moscow Olympic Game 1980 Survivor of severe child abuse and domestic violence I was born in Latvia into the times during the Soviet Union occupation. Family values in my family were really strange due to my mother’s traumatic experiences in the 2nd world Wartime after the war. End of the 60is and beginning of the 70is in Latvia were the deepest and most depressing family lives as there weren’t family values we are now thinking about. Become one of the youngest Olympic team members in Moscow Olympics, finish Craftsmanship College in Latvia, Student Neuroscience in Moscow, Economic in St Petersburg and Trading techniques

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Just as from my former world of Olympics where everybody has the same emotions and feelings, no matter the background, skin colour, country or the origin.

Over the years I have done a lot of travelling around the world, living in countries with a completely different political system, lifestyles, cultures, beliefs, and religions. This experience gives me a clear indication that every culture has the knowledge, experience, and expertise of life to live in their unique ways based on their culture and heritage.

I try to embrace one another and educate ourselves to be more understanding and respectful of our communities and the people we live amongst as a unity. If united, we stand the stronger we will be as a society. And as a big surprise, I was awarded the Annual Award as Community Organisation of the year 2019 ECG: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

AF: From a geographical point of view is an amazing con-

tinent as so rich cultural and historical heritage, and this is why I individually do not see this as a continent, Eurasianism is as a movement to support, embrace, promote any culture and nation, create art for next-generation and appreciate the historical heritage, network to Inspire each other, unique platform to display your knowledge, art, experience, including making friends and collaborations between many cultures and individuals, Place where no geographic boundaries and unlimited opportunities.

ECG: What are your favourite artists?

AF: The challenging question in some way. Anyone in some stages of stage thy life values and perspectives change and test or art also assist, artforms changing. In childhood, I love most of the classic Russian poets and performing artists, over the years I discover a lot of Asia and thy art forms, the same time is so many new Artists hues have great work so may I will give you some shortlist of it : music - Tchaikovsky, Raimods Pauls, literature - Aleksandr Puskin, Janis Rainis, Rudolfs Blaumanis painter - Janis Pauljuks, Leonard D’vinchy Each and everyone makes some different influences in my life and different my lifetime or stages and will be a long list of another artist. The artists I mentioned give me the basic understandings and values in my life. For a moment and time, I do like Lady Gaga as her personality and message to the world much to my personal views.

ECG: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

AF: I was invited for a meeting in Birmingham where I found out about the organisation and took this unique opportunity to tuck part of it.

ECG: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity/activity?

AF: Several years working with multicultural communities I was approached to write a book about my life and experiences, sharing the story. Now I start my first book which I plan to launch in September 2020. In this unprecedented time with COVID19 lockdown, I find the best time to do so.

I wish this book will be as a tribute to a many Soviet time human lives how these times influence to individual life stories without any political or propaganda influences, I hope this will give some real insight to life we can talk then but is a big part of the history of many people

AF: This year became interesting due to COVID19 global pandemic. I planned to develop performing, music and dance multicultural festivals in the UK to embrace acknowledgement of so many fantastic cultures in the UK society and help to integrate into it too. Now, most of it is exposed or cancelled. At least this gives me so much learning to use new technologies and another way to do so. Interesting things happened that I am re-engaged with the Latvian community where I have to support the community through social media platform Tauta. For the moment I work to develop my social media platform “Anastasia’s Art of Life”. This project’s main purpose is to share different individuals’ life stories/ experiences from many walks of life. Mental health is a big topic and huge demands for support and understanding the issues why 75% of the population in the UK suffer from mental health and what causes the illness. Scientifically it is approved that open conversation is the first step to tackle these problems.The same time is proving that music and any artform also bring huge part for individuals in recovery processes for people hues suffer from mental health therefore after lockdown I will continue all projects and events and I love to collaborate with all Eurasian Creative Guild members and welcome to take part on all these events to share your amazing creativity.

ECG: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

AF: First I wish to publish my book and may take part in your competition in Literature but not sure this will be this year. But I love to open new projects with ECG and expand other artforms in the organisation, therefor I hope our work together will bring many fantastic projects and opportunities to all ECG: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

AF: 1st, I think most important to anyone who wishes to achieve any goals is known, what they want to achieve.Without knowing where you want to go, you can not find a way to get there. 2nd, whit out step out of your comfort zone you newer achieve real your potential as there no failure is learning curve. 3rd, if you always do the same thing you will always achieve the same results, this can be a good thing as to can polish the skills you need, however, can be bad things, if you see the results isn’t what you wish to reach. We all need to assess time to time: what we have, want we want, and what we do. and from that make a decision and take action.

ECG: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

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PUBLIC FIGURE peoples with different cultures, mentalities and religions. In 2011, I established the International Public Association “Generals of the World - for Peace,” a progressive movement of peacekeepers with an open career structure, a single electronic platform, a charitable foundation and a complex of national missions. It has become a relevant and effective tool for promotion of the philosophy of Peace, the ideology of universal harmony and the rejection of violence.

ECG: What is Eurasianism for you?

AS: For me, Eurasianism is not just geography, it is a civilization with a big and unique history - tragic, but great. This is the cradle of hundreds of cultures, the birthplace of a huge Eurasian family with a bright and difficult fate and, of course, a great future. Eurasianism unites yesterday, today, and tomorrow. It’s a unique code in each of us.

ECG: Who are your favorite artists?

AS: Becoming older, we always look for answers to difficult questions in art, so we grow, we learn art, life, and we change.

Naturally, our favourites and choices change too. Today, I like to read Brian Tracy, Robert Kiyosaki, Joe Dyspenza, and I am absorbing their practice in personal growth, I am passionate about books that help me grow and develop. I love to read Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi.

Anatoly Skarghin was born in Kyrgyzstan, worked in the system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In 1995 went out on pension from the Ministry of Internal Affairs — deputy minister’s position. He is the president of the International Public Association “Generals of the World - for Peace,” the Police Major General.

ECG: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

AS: We participated and helped to organize many ECG events in Bishkek and Alma-Ata.Their attractive format gives a unique opportunity for talented and creative authors to declare themselves, their work and creative research. Poets, writers from more than 30 countries participated in such events. I do hope that our flag is now remembered by many people, today it is recognized throughout the world since it had visited the North Pole, the highest point in Europe, Elbrus Peak, and with the Russian-American space crew it flew around the Earth more than 5500 times on the International Space Station.

ECG: Tell us about yourself and your activity/work AS: I am the president of the International Public Association “Generals of the World - for Peace,” the Police Major General Anatoly Skarghin. I was born in the Kyrgyz Republic and through most of my life, I have devoted myself to serving in the internal affairs authorities where I rose to the rank of general. My career was forming in a very difficult time and in an extremely sensitive region. Kyrgyzstan, the former republic of the collapsed Soviet Union, stood at the junction of Europe and Asia and was always densely inhabited by many

ECG: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity/activity?

AS: For me, ECG is a platform for those who are advanced and relevant, constructive and caring, creative and looking.

This is an opportunity to share ideas, to get acquainted with creative technology, to present your own. The opportunity to ask a question or get an answer, to inspire your project or be fascinated by someone else’s. The ECG is the anticipation of new opportunities, exciting meetings; this is the potential for creative integration.

ANATOLY SKARGHIN

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ECG: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

AS: Yes, I have several personal projects, and our participants help me in their implementation, but I would like to talk about one of them. It is called the Bell of Peace. In 1981, the UN General Assembly established the International Day of Peace. Once a year on the day of the spring equinox, the installed bell signalled the time of a general ceasefire and refusal of violence. We decided to give this initiative a new impetus, and now we promote it as part of our movement, accompanied by new creative solutions. According to the plan of founders of “General of the World - for Peace”, such Bells of Peace should be installed in the cities all over the world where our NATIONAL SECTIONS are represented.

Such bells can become landmark places for holding various events, including solemn, official, private events, etc., the main thing is that such an event or action must not contradict the peaceful theme and purpose of the BELL OF PEACE. ECG: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

AS: We are building bridges of friendship in science, business, art, medicine - we participate in educational, sports events, forums, discussion platforms and any other events of our Association, and we help children’s camps and schools.

Corners of Peace, lessons in friendship and harmony, the Veterans Alley are some of our successful projects. The spiritual and moral education of the youth, propaganda of Peace and interethnic harmony in the modern world require new approaches, new formats. We are passionate about finding effective creative solutions to achieve the goal. The involvement of the younger generation in the digital, virtual world - the Internet, give us new challenges, and we are trying to make our content understandable to all generations.

Expanding the audience, finding creative like-minded people and new ideas – that is what I and my team want from a new project, that is why we are ready to share our experience and potential, to demonstrate our creative achievements.

ECG: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

AS: I wish the new members of the Guild to be creative and open, to be able to accept any constructive dialogue and bring out something new - fascinating or thought-provoking because all and any experience makes our creative potential greater. And which is the most important, I wish them peace, harmony and a sea full of love.

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PUBLIC FIGURE Expert Council of Business Trainers. For 13 years of work in my training and consulting company, I wrote 30 teaching books, two of which are published in London. Creativity for me is a way to get energy, space of self-realization, source of inspiration, the ability to share with peopleone’s vision of life.

ECG: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

EB: Eurasianism is a territorial, mental, emotional community that seeks beyond state borders. Eurasianism is a phenomenon that develops people’s desire to a better community.

ECG: What are your favorite artists?

EB: These are my contemporaries, friends who, in addition to creative work, carry the idea unification through an open mind and heart.

Gulsifat Shahidi is a famous Eurasian writer. It is especially interesting to read Gulsifat works after communicating with this sunny, smiling woman. Gulsifat’s books give rise to interest and love for her homeland - Tajikistan, and here is an example of how creates a sense of community within Eurasianism.

Oksana Zhukova - creates trust in people of a difficult profession - journalists. Everything to what Oksana touches, begins to show its beauty and attractiveness, lightness and security.

ELENA BEZRUKOVA Business coach and owner of the “Elena Bezrukova Center” aimed at training and consulting,she is also practicing psychology. Her work experience over 26 years. More than 5000 specialists have been trained by her programm and now they successfully apply learned knowledge. Education: pedagogical, economic, psychological. Elena Bezrukova has Kazakh and international certificates for conducting training and consulting programs.

ECG: 1. Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

EB: My name is Bezrukova Elena Arkadevna,from Almaty (Kazakhstan). My main profession is as a business coach in the restaurant business, personnel management, personality development, I lead more than 50 copyright educational programs. I am a candidate of psychological sciences,I am exploring the possibilities of human self-realization. Grafelvist, writer, member ECG Advisory Board, Chairman of the

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Nick Rowan - destroys the myth of the cold and stiff English.

Smiling, sociability, listening ability - arouses trust and respect for his books and social activities.

Marat Akhmedzhanov - for me is an example of erudition and curiosity for life, tolerance and positive resilience.

ECG: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild?

EB: Yes, in almost all literary festivals organized by Hertfordshire Press and ECG: in Bishkek, in London, in Thailand, in Belgium. Our company was co-organizer of the literary festival in Almaty in 2013, in Stockholm Antonina Schuster represented us, author of Lines of Life. In 2018, I was lucky to be in Minsk at events organized by Belbrand.

My company participated in exhibitions in Astana, Bishkek, London in 2018-2919, Almaty in my city, I strive to be at all the meetings of the guild.

ECG: What the Eurasian Creative Guild means to you, and how it influenced. Your creativity / activity?

EB: For me it’s a stream that takes me out of my beloved

ECG Advisory Board member Almaty, my beloved business business coaching in the world of creativity, communication with wonderful people. This is an occasion for amazing travels in which I represent my country where I am met with funny adventures. The guild is not a “window to Europe”, but hundreds of roads through which to go.

ECG: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

EB: My favorite project Projective graphics - these are lines created on the mental impulse having the properties to manifest various images and conditions.

They have common nature with primitive art and calligraphy of the Old Slavic alphabet.

For projective graphics, I got copyright in 2017 at the International Patent Office in Berlin. Helping me in this ECG, Academy of Ambitious Artists, with direct participation of Evgenia Lomakina - consultant and appraiser of subjects art.

year. And some designer dresses that I plan to show on one of the activities of the Guild.

Another project is miniatures for paintings. Art has become now much closer to people thanks to the Internet and social networks, and the number of buyers of paintings are not increasing, visual culture is still weak in the post-Soviet space.

Therefore, I had a desire to write literary sketches on behalf of the viewer, which so that the picture could get a speech and become closer and more understandable to the inexperienced viewer.

I wrote the first miniature for the work of the Circus, Marlan Nysanbayev, now Ambassador Guild. In 2018, I published a catalog with miniatures for the Literary festival in Thailand.

In 2019, I became a laureate of two literary works.

ISBN: 978-0-9930444-3-4

There is still a debate in the professional community about whether ‘grapelles’ are art, or more relate to psychology. Art critics Tikhomirova Valentina and Zhumagulova Maria conducted research on the topic of projective graphics, recognized in the world specialist in the evaluation of art Elizabeth Malinovskaya gave a positive appreciation of my work. Famous artists Lydia Drozdova, Igor Gushchin, Marlan Nysanbaev, Alesya Shaher support my work.

The ‘grapelles’ give the most important assessment to ‘graphelvs’, they say that ‘graphelvs’ develop spatial and multidimensional vision, imagination, uplift, make the space lighter and brighter.

I have a series of paintings called “The reverse side of the portrait”, which I presented during the fashion week last

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PUBLIC FIGURE OCA: What is Eurasianism for you?

LM: It is the fact of creating a common dynamic inside this region of the world that is distinguished by a strong creativity, a high quality of work, and a history of legend. This can be applied in all areas of activities.

OCA: Who are your favourite artists?

LM: I’m a great fan of Uzbek pop music and clips, it is an original mix of modern music that refers to everyday Central Asia life, a unique style, like Lola Yuldasheva, Ziyoda or others nice voices.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events or the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) ?

LM: I participated in all meetings in Geneva with a lot of pleasure, I was able to exchange with other members on various topics, and we kept in touch.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

LM: It is a pleasure to share my passion for this region with others and see that we all share the same goal, to enhance this beautiful region.

LAURENT MARGADANT

Laurent has been working in the banking industry. He worked in the accountancy of a private aviation company and I have worked for the TPG Transport Publics Genevois, a State Company for public transport in Geneva twenty years as Manager of the Trolleybus Operations. He has been passionate about Central Asia since 2007, with many trips and many friends in this region. This place has become a very important part of his life. Central Asia makes his heart beat faster and which gives sunshine to his life.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity/work?

LM: I am a Swiss citizen and I’m in love with aviation, travel and people.After a short banking career, I joined the world of transport, first in aviation and for several years in the world of public transport. I am currently the head of the trolleybus department in Geneva. I build projects related to vehicle renewals and the creation of new lines. I am committed to modernizing this environmentally friendly mode of transportation. I like my activity that has a social role in society.

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OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

LM: My dreams are to participate as a volunteer in a public transport development project in this region, improving performance by maintaining the human quality and tradition of hospitality. To share all my experience of my country with these regions, it’s a project full of colours and happiness. I’m open for an interesting company.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

LM: I’m already full of emotion to have been able to participate in the launch of the book “Shahidka/Munabiya” written

by Kazat Akmatov and wrote a little preface with my heart.

I’m always ready to commit to anything that could enhance this region.

OCA: What would you wish to the members of the Guild, just starting?

LM: I hope to feel the same happiness of being together and sharing to share all the love we have for these regions.

OCA: How the passion for this region arrived?

LM: The chance of life and my passion for travel led me to discover Tashkent 15 years ago. I immediately felt energy and a sense of immediate well-being; I felt I had found my place.

Then I travelled to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, where I met some great Peoples, who all became more than friends, they are all my second family.

PUBLIC FIGURE

ECG Advisory Board member Writing about post-Soviet space, I found there was an appetite for articles on these countries which are often under-represented in the Western media. Back in 2012, Kyrgyzstan was the first former Soviet Republic I visited, now I’ve been to all of them multiple times, penning pieces ranging from history and travel to news stories and investigative reporting on environmental issues, oligarchs and financial crime. It became my niche.

Now, in addition to writing about the region, I also research and edit reports on and books by authors from these countries, which can be rewarding in itself.

OCA: What is it that draws you to post-Soviet territories and what are you working on now?

SMB: I find the diversity, the pace of change and the way these nations are looking to forge their identities, which were submerged for so long, fascinating. Lingering spectres from Soviet times continue to clash against the pressures of modernity as each of these unique lands attempts to shape itself in the twenty-first century, often by delving into its past. As the actor Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who played the president in a Ukrainian TV comedy before becoming president of the country in a landslide victory despite having announced no policies said: ‘in post-Soviet countries… everything is possible.’

STEPHEN M. BLAND Stephen M.Bland is a freelance journalist, award-winning author, researcher and editor specialising in post-Soviet territories. His book on Central Asia was released in 2016, and he is currently putting the finishing touches to a book about the Caucasus. www.stephenmbland.com OCA: Tell us about yourself and your work SMB: My name is Stephen M. Bland; I’m a freelance journalist, author, researcher and editor specialising in Central Asia and the Caucasus. I first became interested in Central Asia when I visited the region on a whim in 2012. At the time, I was working on a novel based on the history of Laos, but within a few days of arriving in Kyrgyzstan, this project was shelved, and I fell in love with Central Asia. I spent the next three years travelling there as often as I could, the end result of which was my book, Does it Yurt? Travels in Central Asia or How I Came to Love the Stans, a mix of travel, history and reportage exploring the rich heritage, politic landscape and the stories of the people and places of these fascinating lands.

I’m currently working on a book about the Caucasus, which serves as a prime example. Since the collapse of the USSR, the three traumatised nations and three breakaway republics that make up Transcaucasia have seen three inter-regional wars, at least two - arguably more - dictators, two revolutions, two coup d’états and one civil war. Despite being a small region, the Caucasus are incredibly diverse, and from the culturally Persian desert towns of Southern Azerbaijan to the remote mountain communities of Georgia, local traditions and superstitions remain deeply ingrained. In Baku, for example, people still pray at a shrine dedicated to the purportedly supernatural Mir Mövsüm, a man more commonly known as the “Meat Lord” and said to have been born without bones. In Georgia, meanwhile, as the likely birthplace of wine and the nation with the largest diversity of wine in the world, the tradition of the tamada – the toastmaster at feasts – dates back to time immemorial.

Attitudes to the Soviet-era are also interesting. When officials attempted to remove a statue of “Uncle Joe” from outside the Stalin Museum in his hometown of Gori in 2010, they met with stiff resistance. So, besides its physical manifestations, in certain aspects the USSR continues to endure in hearts and minds.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you?

SMB: At a time when many governments seem intent on exacerbating divisions, the ECG is important as a body bringing together people from across Europe and Asia. It is a space in which to share cultural heritage and expand our understanding.

It also serves as a vehicle for making contacts with others working in a broad range of arts, and for that it should be applauded.

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PUBLIC FIGURE and are moving away from and suffering as a result. Today, one has little time to adapt to one difficulty, when another one befalls one. The peoples of the world are tired of the compounding problems, but they cannot (or are unwilling to) understand that every problem is solved when one starts with oneself, i.e. starts to thank the Creator for the life given, the way He expects from us. Exactly this way and not otherwise.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

NT: Eurasia is the territory where the greatest ever spiritual prosperity is to take place – the 1000-year spiritual and, as its result, worldly prosperity – after the current period of severe global upheavals, the culmination of which is expected in 2021-2022.

The golden era of mankind is predicted in the Bible, the Qur’an and the traditions. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Messiah-Mahdi and the founder of 200 million-strong Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, predicted all this in detail, coming true with 100% accuracy.

Presenting my PhD monograph at the Russia House London (Rossotrudnichestvo)

NURYM TAIBEK Nurym is a mathematician, business manager, ideologue of general prosperity (through natural market / ‘Islamic’ economic system), scholar of philosophy of religion, theologian, author of scientific works, articles in the press and interviews with major media, blogger, translator.

He is an author of dozens of scientific publications on philosophy of religion, appeared in the media dozens of times (TV, press, radio, including BBC). Expert in simultaneous and written translation, incl. for Baker & McKenzie, Editor-in-Chief WSJ Canada, USAID, etc. He also has a journalist experience with: MTA Intl, CaspioNet, BBC Radio Kazakh Service (1997), translations from Businessweek.

OCA: TeOCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

NT: My main activities are spiritual ministry and spiritual enlightenment. I propagate something people have forgotten

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Back in 1905 (when all this seemed unthinkable), he prophesied of the WWI and the sad end of tsarism.

He also predicted rise in natural disasters, epidemics and military conflicts (including 3 World Wars), as well as an upsurge in the number of victims from all of these. Most of the survivors would admit their guilt, repent, live righteously and prosper.

Jesus, Muhammad and all previous prophets (peace be upon them all) predicted about him in depth, up to his name (Ahmad, or Paracletes in the Greek Bible) and his birthplace (Kada in India, a shortened popular name of his native village of Qadian). He belonged to the expanded Mughal dynasty and became the crown of the religious efforts of this dynasty and the greatest saintly scholar of our time.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

NT: All the spiritual teachers of mankind. It is the books and traditions they brought that are the most living, life-giving and most interesting sources of knowledge and satisfaction of curiosity.They cover all possible areas of knowledge. In the documents they left, other people introduced interpolations that can be calculated and eliminated purely logically. Secular scientists have already accomplished this task by 90%, too.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

NT: Yes, since 2013: in all Book Forums, except for one; and in all events in London.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity?

NT: ECG is a wonderful platform, it is a model of the future Eurasia, where everyone is heard. It has helped me to realize my potential further.

OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

NT: Go for it!

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

NT: In 2018, I completed the Russian translation of the greatest contemporary treatise – “Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth” and presented it at the ECG Book Forum 2018.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

NT: I participated in almost all Book Forums as well as in the Academic Series: my PhD monograph on topical issues of modern Islamic studies was published by Cambridge International Press in 2018. Its title is Love for All, Hatred for None - the Raison d’Être of Ahmadi Muslims. Also, I took part in the crowdfunding project Elish and the Wicker Tale.

I plan to participate in other projects like Zoom meetings starting Autumn 2020.

With Sir Iftikhar Ahmad Ayaz, KBE, another prominent Ahmadi Muslim, the Hon. Consul of the Commonwealth realm of Tuvalu in London.

With another prominent Ahmadi Muslim, Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, a UK Foreign Minister, and a guest lady at the Annual Convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK

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PERFORMIG ARTS as commented by my journalist husband, produce an independent creative genre. Love for ballet is the basis of my creative life. And of course, the “Giving” award, which I have been presenting for ten years, to the most gifted graduates in our school, has a very special place in my heart. In my view, any means of increasing self-esteem and self-confidence is as valuable as any material support.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

GK: For me, ‘Eurasianism’ is not only a geopolitical, but also a philosophical issue and from my perspective as someone associated with choreography, offers a sense of belonging to two great civilizations: settled and nomadic, western and eastern ... It is something that finds expression across the board; from material things to appearance and mentality, and of course, dance. The intersections, collisions of these powerful cultural streams help us to rise upwards and by looking at the world beyond, identify commonalities whilst emphasizing something special in oneself and others. In a truly choreographic art, there are no countries and continents, nationalities and languages, where people understand each other without the use of words.

GULNARA KAPANOVA Gulnara is a stage movement researcher, professional ballerina - leading soloist of the Kazakhstan Opera House, master of arts (choreography), certified specialist in functional anatomy. Author of documentaries about classical ballet, founder of the “Gift” award for graduates of the Almaty Choreographic School named after Seleznev. Author of a number of scientific articles from the book “Modern Competencies of a Ballet Dancer”.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work GK: Up until recently, I was a leading solo ballet dancer at the State Opera House and now teach at the choreographic school and train dancers at the Academy of Arts. My professional life in the theatre and as a teacher coupled with personal experience, led to a desire to write a book on the mastery of ballet. Being on stage and working behind the scenes gave me a unique opportunity to capture in photographs and video, a professional ballet environment, and

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OCA: What are your favourite artists?

GK: Everyone has their guiding stars. For me, these are Olzhas Suleimenov with his famous aphorism “to elevate the steppe without lowering the mountains”, and Chingiz Aitmatov with his extremely “naked” prose. I so greatly admire the magical realism of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’. I consider Sylvia Guillem the greatest ballerina of our time for her astonishing ability to demonstrate the true spirit of dance, and cite my mentor Lyudmila Rudakova, as a role model of how to teach and communicate with students.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

GK: I participate in events organised by the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) whenever time allows. As one of the very few representatives of my profession, communicating with creative people is always an incentive for development and offers me an opportunity to expand my interests, knowledge and horizons. My husband and son are also members of the Guild, so together, we are a fully-fledged ‘Eurasian’ creative family!

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

GK: As for me, the Eurasian Creative Guild, is primarily a means through which I can develop and expose my work on a completely new and different level. It enabled me to first publish my book as part of the Guild’s ‘academic’ series and then present it in London and Cambridge; something I never imagined would happen! It is just one example of how the organisation can offer creative people, especially those living so far away in Eurasia, the chance to realise their dreams.

In ballet and opera, the audience expresses their appreciation of performers’ skills and dedication with exclamations of “bravo!” and following suit and with sincere thanks, I say: “Bravo, Eurasian Creative Guild!”

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

GK: My projects are related to choreography. Together with my husband and like-minded people, I have been nurturing the idea of creating an international choreographic portal: ‘Ballet Eurasia’. It is an ambitious project for which we have been collecting material for several years. I also have many plans related to photography and video projects that reveal the identity of the dancers in unexpected ways, and am considering the creation of special ballet gymnastics and distance- learning in a number of disciplines. I shall continue writing articles and books which I would love to translate into English and this year, with the help of the Guild, hope to publish the English translation of my book “Professional Competence of a Ballet Dancer”. In addition, I would love to participate in the festival of documentaries and photo exhibitions as part of the annual meetings of the Eurasian Creative Guild.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

GK: The Eurasian Creative Guild is a magical place where ABILITIES CONNECT WITH OPPORTUNITIES! I would therefore advise creative newcomers not to spend their time in vain and instead, follow the road paved by Marat Akhmetzhanov - a great enthusiast and tireless traveller This path will lead to new horizons and help you find yourself. Just like the Ballet, the Guild can provide you with a magnificent stage on an international level, and what you show on it depends on you! Don’t miss your chance!

ISBN: 978-1-910886-54-0

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PERFORMIG ARTS During her studies in the UK she worked with various professional orchestras, such as The London Mozart Players, Philhamonisches Kammerorchester Berlin, Danub Orchestra(Budapest, Hungary), Amber Sound Symphony Orchestra( Liepaja, Latvia), Estonian National Youth Orchestra (Tallinn, Estonia), St Petersburg Chamber Philharmonic and the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Margarita has conducted a few contemporary music premieres both in Norway and the UK. OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work MM: I was born and grew up in the northern part of Russia – often called the Russian North. For almost all of my life since the start of the millennium I have spent abroad – both in Norway and the UK. I always found the fact that the place where you’re born influences the person you become a very fascinating one.

Seeing various cultures around the world, learning three new languages and becoming quite a multicultural person, I always save the warmest place in my heart for my hometown of Arkhangelsk. With its famous wooden architecture, bone and wood carving traditions, the long, cold and dark winter nights and the cordial hospitality of Pomor people.

MARGARITA MIKHAILOVA Born in Russia, Margarita began her studies as a pianist and choral conductor in St Petersburg Academy of Art. Since 2002 she has worked in Norway and gradually extended her repertoire from classical and romantic composers to contemporary music. After completing her Master Degree in Choral Conducting at the Norwegian Academy of Music Margarita worked with leading Norwegian vocal ensembles, such as : Norwegian Soloist Choir and Kristiansand Vocal Ensemble. She achieved critical acclaim performing Russian Orthodox Church music and modern Scandinavian repertoire.

In June 2017 she graduated from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire -- MMus, Orchestral Conducting. Margarita is currently working as a Visiting Tutor at the Conservatoire and as a freelance conductor.

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OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

MM: Paradoxically, music was not my biggest passion when I was a kid. Just like the millions of other girls at the time, I dreamed about becoming a dancer. Anyhow, I chose ‘conducting’ for my main studies when I was 15 and I have never regretted it.

Conducting took me on an endless journey of an unbelievably wide range of music. I often get questions on whether I compose my own music. Strangely enough, I have never found this exciting. It is much more interesting for me to get into other composer’s musical ideas, to understand the message of their music, to use my fantasy and imagination to become “the composer’s advocate”. Furthermore, I love to inspire and motivate my musicians. A conductor is certainly a visual kind leader. Great conductors are those who share their leading glory with the musicians, those who trust them and immediately invite them to take the limelight. Without the orchestra, the conductor is nothing.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

MM: I would like to leave out the geopolitical definition of

“Eurasianism”. Everyone knows that Eurasianism as an ideological and philosophical movement originally developed in 1920th. I think many of us read something from Nikolay Trybetzkoy, Georgii Florovsky or Nikolay Berdyaev who were first key leaders of Eurasianism. At least I did.

My personal interest in Eurasia lies firstly in a cultural aspect.

I perceive Eurasian as a cradleland for many civilizations. A place where our ethnic routes first met a thousand years ago. Nowadays many of us feel a strong requirement to develop and use multicultural links and integration as a global goal, but not as a political tool. Different cultural and religious heritages have always been a part of my native interest. To meet new people, exchange and support one another’s innovative ideas – what can be better for an artist than that: whether you are a writer, poet, musician, painter, architect or a filmmaker.

Together our creative vision for the future is stronger and more fruitful.

This initiative gave me a brilliant opportunity to present a new young orchestra in London working under the organisation ‘Harmony: Action through the Art’. I believe that together we will create a memorable event for the guests of Eurasian Cultural Week, composers and musicians – as well as everyone else involved. Furthermore, we aim to improve the first concert to a permanent concert program for the future events of ECG. OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

MM: Find your individual voice and stay in harmony with yourself.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

MM: This question always makes me feel embarrassed. The reason is that I have never favoured any particular art figure of any time. Even those who I admire greatly. I want to stay culturally open minded and make new “art discoveries” during my life.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

MM: I am looking forward to organising the first symphony orchestra performance under the Eurasian Cultural Week in London in October 2019. In March I came with the idea to the president of the Guild and I really hope we will be able to realise it.

Such performance involves lots of preparation which is happening at the moment. I decided to call the concert, “New Eurasian Wave” as my idea is to reveal and present music of composers who are connected to the Eurasian region. Composers from Armenia, Kuwait and Kazakhstan are already on the list of the concert program.

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PERFORMIG ARTS museums and cultural centres in the Eurasian space.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

MDS: I see ‘Eurasianism’ as describing the exciting formation of a modern identity based on the sharing of rich, historic cultures among diverse ethnicities. As the result of intense political change that’s barely one generation old, Eurasianism positively embraces the vibrant intensity of globalised possibility, whilst respectfully acknowledging the sensitive legacies of a turbulent past. As a burgeoning artistic movement, Eurasianism is creating a mosaic of intellectuals and artists that current generations can be inspired by to learn how the past, connected to the present, is shaping the future.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

MDS: I am fascinated by how the artist Erbol Meldibekov continuously finds inspired ways using mediums of sculpture, photography and mixed media to powerfully depict the dialogue between past and present through social and political realities. The pianist, Khatia Buniatishvili exemplifies the fusion that produces prodigious musical skill with an enthralling visual performance. When reading to relax, the writings of Khalil Gilbran remain a comforting source of profound wisdom and deep philosophy expressed through wonderful sketches of word imagery. As a self-taught musician, I learned from the Beatles, so I am a certified Beatlemaniac!

MICHAEL DANIEL SAGATIS Michael Daniel is a British independent researcher, composer and filmmaker with Baltic & Slavic roots. He created an intergenerational memory project “Józefa’s Letters” that’s been widely exhibited throughout the Eurasian space. In 2019, he made and co-scored the documentary short film “Józefa’s Letters” which has received 9 official film festival selections.

Visit: https://vimeo.com/michaelsagatis OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work MDS: I am an independent researcher, filmmaker and composer born and raised in the UK with Slavic and Celtic roots.

I have recently finished making a short documentary film about intergenerational memory, Józefa’s Letters, which has received 9 film festival selections including for best original score. As a communicator and presenter, I’ve travelled extensively to present a series of exhibitions and talks in

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

MDS: During this period of quarantine due to the Covid-19 pandemic, I have enjoyed taking part in the Guilds online meetings where we have shared opinions and creative responses to topics from the life of Shakespeare to the inspiration of Nature. These events have displayed the spirit of the Guild to remain connected in these challenging times.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your Creativity / activity?

MDS: I joined the Guild to broaden my understanding of the Eurasian creative space by exploring opportunities that could contribute to existing creative projects and co-operate with new ones. As a dynamic multi-national forum, the ECG connects members from varied backgrounds who are positively motivated to participate in cultural exchange and the promotion of personal and professional development.

Through the activities of the Guild, I have discovered inspiring projects, fascinating books and connected with people from around the Eurasian space.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

MDS: Since 2017, I have travelled and lived in Eurasia, presenting a multimedia auto-ethnographic project, Józefa’s Letters, which has been widely reported by local and national press in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Lithuania and Belarus.

I have now returned to the UK with impressions and experiences that underline the success resulting from the joint efforts of many countries who have helped recover the hitherto lost identity of an ancestor and allowed for the better understanding of the Eurasian and European history that connects the fates between generations of family members.

I’m currently preparing a pitch for the Baltic Sea Co-Financing forum of international documentary projects that will powerfully tell the full story as a feature documentary. I’m also writing a transformational non-fiction title where historical narratives are introduced by a series of real and related characters, who each have a striking story that connects how the creation of ancestral trauma, its echo and subsequent healing, is accomplished by descendants determined to understand the events that have shaped and defined their family history.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

MDS: Last year I was honoured to be part of a delegation from the Moscow School of Civic Education that attended

the ‘Sapere Aude’ forum on Freedom of Speech, Media and Society held at Oxford University. As part of the celebrations marking 150-years since the founding of the city of Aktobe, I participated in the TEDx Aktobe event alongside inspirational local Kazakh artists, personalities and entrepreneurs. In October, I was invited to present my research and collection of historical artefacts at a conference held at Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan City. In March this year, I was invited to Minsk to attend the premiere of my film following its selection at the Minsk ‘Unfiltered’ Film Festival.

I have proudly supported the Guild’s crowd-funded project to change the established human worldview of Autism by creating a graphic novel based on the children’s book, Elish and the Wicker Tales by Kamran Slayer. I wish this important project every success!

I am currently submitting a film to the Guild’s Eurasian Film Festival and I have also entered the Top 25 Eurasian Artworks 2020 photography competition.

OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

MDS: Read, research and reach out to those who have expertise you can learn from and experience that may also be able to help your projects develop.Travel as much as possible to let real experiences colour your impressions, challenge your assumptions and inspire your imagination!

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LITERATURE joint projects with SDC, OBSE, UNDP, UNICEF, Red Cross, Red Crescent and so forth. In 2005, I received a diploma with honours and two days later went to Jalal-Abad (in the south of Kyrgyzstan), where I found out what it was like to work with refugees (from Uzbekistan). And it wasn’t a movie! The mission was accomplished, and I came back to Bishkek. After I got married and gave birth to my son, I completed a mini-version of MBA course and started working at the University of Central Asia. This was the next stage of my professional development: from a director assistant in the School of Professional and Continuing Education to a publication specialist.

For this relatively short period of time I was working with artisans in various projects, was an OXUS accountant in Bishkek, a French, English and Russian teacher for foreigners, was editing tutorials for the Youth Development Institute under the GIZ project, was creating work programs, guides and tests for various educational projects, was the director of “Alliance Française” in Bishkek, was editing the materials of the Walker story project, correcting publications in the “Neformat” photo school, working closely with the Polish magazine “Polonus” in Kyrgyzstan, and correcting it for the 50th anniversary of the founding of the first Catholic parish in Kyrgyzstan “Memoirs of the Prelate Mikhail Koehler” (the first rector of the Roman Catholic community in Bishkek), translated from German language.

ELENA BOSLER-GUSEVA Elena is a founder and director of a ‘Premium Group’ company in Kyrgyzstan, a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild, a recent chairman of the Expert Council in the category of “Translation”. Hobbies: literature (writing articles, children’s stories, poems, dubbing texts), foreign languages (individual teaching, drawing up progressive training programs, consulting), painting, travel.

OCA: Please tell us about yourself and your creative work.

EBG: Over the past 18 years I got to work in many organisations. My career started in the international French organization ACTED which I joined as an intern during my second year of university studies. And this was the place where I acquired my first experience and practical skills while studying at the Faculty of translation. This was a very busy period of my life. I traveled a lot and participated in

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OCA: Do you have any particular personal project that you want to tell us about?

EBG: Currently I have my own company. Together with my husband, we develop touristic destinations by offering exclusive tours to Central Asia, and trade with a number of international companies. As tea lovers, I actively develop this market. Tea in an integral part of the cultures and people’s lives in our region. Within the “Ethno tea” project we work with the best tea producers around the world and in particular, import tea from highland plantations of Rwanda.

My long-term love for the French language and France resulted in a cooperation with one of the world’s manufacturers of a natural French soap. Two times a year I personally take part in fairs where I really enjoy wrapping gifts and seeing happy customers.

I still keep working on charity projects. I guess, my first experience makes itself felt. I’ve been thinking about creating a ‘Children village’ which will include a kindergarten and a school. This is going to be a massive project.

ECG Ambassador OCA: What does “Eurasianism” mean to you?

EBG: For me it’s a “planet” of unique people.

OCA: Have you participated in any of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) events? Which projects have you already joined and which projects do you plan to join?

EBG: In 2008, I met Anastasiya Li and Marat Akhmejanov for the first time and wrote my first article on a koumiss for Discovery Central Asia. Then, I wrote a lot of other different articles for DCA, “Horizons”, travel guides. There were also different interesting projects in the Eurasian Creative Guild and the first Literature Festival in Bishkek.And this is where I acquired editing skills, enhanced my translation skills and got the experience of socialising with creative people, which was quite useful for my translation and editorial skills workshop for interns at the Guild in Bishkek. I’ve been an active member of the Guild since it’s foundation till today.

One of the most important joint projects for me was Megan Verner’s book “This depends on me: 7 ways to make your life better”. Apart from translating the book of this ambitious girl, I also learnt to see life differently.

In 2018 I wrote a short story called “An unusual message from the peaks of the Tien Shan” for the literary collection “Thread 2”. This story is about 2 leopard cub brothers who addressed their message to people living in cities. I was inspired by one of my students - Suraya who at that time worked on a project about protection of leopards in Kyrgyz-

stan.And the mom of those two little leopard cubs - Heroine - a female leopard, who really lives in Tien-Shan mountains.

Why a ‘Heroine’? Because she brought two lovely cubs in an already big leopard family.This year I plan to continue writing this story.

OCA: What does Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you and how did it influence your creative work?

EBG: It’s like a big family for me. We all are so different (translators, proofreaders, writers, artists, musicians, directors, artists ...), but this is what makes it special. We all, the members of the Guild, are like glasses in a kaleidoscope, creating a single and unique image that changes every time but never ceases to amaze and delight us with its versatility. We often complement each other. Some write, others edit and translate, another group composes music, others play it on stage, and others embed all these into canvas for centuries.

OCA: What would you wish for those members of the Guild who just have just started their creative journey?

EBG: It’s never too late to become the one you want to be.

Every person is unique in his or her own way. And everyone can find their own favourite activity. Don’t bury your talents but develop them. Some people consider art as a hobby.

But I don’t really agree with that. If you take it seriously, you can transform your favourite activity into your lifetime work which will bring benefits to other people and society in general and will become a good source of revenue. Don’t neglect the opportunities!

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LITERATURE Much to my surprise, my first poem, written as a schoolgirl, won recognition at the regional contest ‘Ecoskaz’ and since then, poetry and I have been inseparable. Forays into other literary genres resulted in the publication of two books of modern prose written in the form of a psychophysiologist’s diary. As a teacher, I work with adults but as a writer, I also cater for young readers who are far more demanding!

Two years ago, I initiated ‘Mastering the Word’; a contest for young Russian poets accompanied by a publication of winning entries, which offers participants an opportunity to communicate their ideas within a poetic sphere and find their readers. I believe that festivals are an essential platform on which writers from different countries can share their work and as a consequence, initiate new collaborations to enrich our creativity.

I collaborate with artists, folk and pop singers, bands and dance groups, and by working with the Ryazan Folk Dance Ensemble ‘Lel’, created a poetry and dance show. My songs have won prizes at various contests and forums and performed by children’s bands and cultural luminaries. I do my best to preserve classical forms of poetry whilst adding a modern outlook through the application of computer technologies.

ELENA KORNEEVA Elena graduated from Ryazan State Pedagogical University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Geography. Elena took part in research expeditions, scientific conferences, won several competitions of poetry and scientific works. She is a laureate of international and all-Russian music competitions of songs for children and teenagers. Her poetry is multifaceted, extending to recitations to music, the composition of lyrics, thematic concerts, and participation in international festivals, forums, and book fairs OCA: Tell us about your work/ creative work.

EK: I have been the head of the Centre for Creative Development and Human Psycho-physiological Correction in Russia for ten years. My work is not just a job; it is a continuous and exciting creative process. Throughout my 17 years as a practicing psychophysiologist, I have taken a poetic view of the world.

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OCA: What are your favorite artists?

EK: There are many prominent authors in the world of modern poetry with whom I am united by friendship and their creative support of me, but I would like to mention in particular, Natalia Ivanovna Harlampyeva, Elena Vasilyevna Sleptsova, Alexander Nawrotsky, Igor Pototsky, Tatyana Zhitkova, Karina Rashitovna Sarsenova, Kakhaber Onashvily, Alexander Ivanovich Timokhin. More than cultural figures and poets, I count them all as my close friends and mentors.

OCA: What is ‘Eurasianess’ for you?

EK: Friendship also played a part in my joining the Eurasian Creative Guild since it was through my friend Marat Akhmedzhanov, that I entered this diverse community of creative people. The Guild provides me with a much-needed opportunity to communicate with both creative people and scientists. I am inspired by the Guild’s ingenious approaches to contemporary issues affecting the creative sphere and equally, by its ongoing programme of up to date projects, discussions, festivals and contests.

OCA: Have you participated in The Eurasian Creative Guild (London) events?

EK: The first event in which I participated was the Open Eurasia competition in 2017, from which I emerged a prizewinner. I then attended the Eurasian Creative Forum II which focused on the theme: ‘Modern Eurasia: Synthesis of Science and Art’, and was announced a golden laureate of the Eurasian International Prize for a significant contribution to the preservation and development of sciences and arts of modern Eurasia.

Ukraine, the UK, Italy, Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and Kazakhstan. I am responsible for the compilation of the annual almanac. Free of charge to contributors, each edition has a different design and is dedicated to a specific topic. Entries submitted in the poets’ native languages are translated and published in Russian, thus promoting the Russian language and providing access by Russian readers to authentic modern poetry from overseas.

OCA: What does The Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, how has it told on your work/ creative work?

EK: Quality is of great importance in any sphere, and participation in any international event or project, requires special attention, a high level of responsibility and self-possession.

Being a member of The Eurasian Creative Guild contributes to my personal growth and development of professionalism in my creative work.

OCA: In which projects have you participated and in which are you planning to participate?

EK: As far as ECG is concerned, I have recently supported Timur Akhmedzhanov’s project involving the publication of ‘Elish and the Wicker Tale’, in addition to contributing to the poetry almanac ‘Friends Voices’.

OCA: Do you have a personal project you would like to tell us about?

EK: I instigated, and have been managing the ongoing international project ‘In the Same Language’ for seven years. It currently represents renowned modern poets from countries throughout the world including Russia, Poland, Belarus,

OCA: What would you wish to the members of the Guild who have just started their creative career?

EK: I would like to wish anyone embarking on a creative career, a constant stream of self-improvement, confidence, honing of their craft, love for their art, creative inspiration, mutual support, and in these unstable times, good health and good luck.

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LITERATURE Before Perestroika, I worked in the district executive committee and was the Chairman of the Book Lovers Society.

This gave me the opportunity to communicate with many interesting people and present their books, organizing creative meetings. Thus, I met Sergey Dudin, who expanded my knowledge about human beings by talking about the energy of humains. I began to develop myself in this direction.

ECG: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

ES: I began to receive interesting information from the Master and started to share it with people. In Soviet times, no one even heard about the knowledge that Master had given me.

ELVIRA SVETLOVA Elvira Svetlova was born in Russia. She graduated from Pedagogical University. After moving to Almaty, Elvira’s articles were published in many media sources. She also wrote several books. She received the title of Doctor of Creative Sciences and Teachings of the Moscow Academy of Sciences.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work ES: I was born in Urals in 1947, my parents lived nearby in the village of Serebryanka, which is located on a river with the same name and flows into the Chusovaya River.After the war, my parents got married and moved to Yekaterinburg. I graduated from school, then a pedagogical institute, specializing in Russian language and literature. I married Alexander and it’s been more than 40 years since we all moved to Almaty. We were working, raising two children. It seems like a usual biography that doesn’t have anything special. But then something happened that changed my life with Alexander dramatically.

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Hundreds of people came to my lectures on human energy. I gave them practical knowledge on how to clean biofield and mind. How to fill yourself with energy from Space by your thoughts. It was very relevant and at the same time unexpected for many people. Besides we made “spiritual missions”: to Asia, Europe, Africa, America, with a specific goal - to see and show people the world is not accessible to everyone. And I shared this knowledge that we brought from our travels in my lectures. During our creative business trips, we visited India, Temples and sacred river Ganges, we walked along the path of Nikolai Konstantinovich and Elena Ivanovna Roerich.

I was lucky to get an invitation and meet with Devika Rani, the last representative of their great family. All trips reports are reflected in our books. “What the Mahatmas say” On November 1, 2008, my husband Alexander passed away.

Over the past years he powerfully supported me, he was everywhere with me, our bond grew tremendously that after his death it seemed to me that I would die soon too. I was so sure about this that I even gave our supplies of cereals, vegetables, noodles, and canned food to a large family, which Sasha always helped. Slowly, with the help of my children, I came to my senses. Then Sasha “ordered” me to put myself together and go to work.

I was able to conduct charity lectures again, practical exercises on energy and individual meetings. Which I have done and still do.

But our conversations with Sasha continued and led me to write the book “Life Opened by Death”. This book is, of course, about life in Paradise and much more.

This book is about life on Earth and its significance for the Paradise worlds. This is the first book on the planet that car-

ries such frank knowledge about those worlds in which we will all be, but do not know anything about them.

Today there is also a second book on this subject. It’s called simply “Life in Paradise”, it has many adventures and travels throughout the Universe, which Alexander and his team do in Those Worlds. Currently I am writing the third.

ES: I’m preparing to publish a new book “Life Opened by Death” in the ECG Book Series. I would like to take part in all festivals and contests that the Guild conducts, especially in the ECG Film Festival.

Time dictates its conditions and now I hold webinars for which like-minded people from around the world gather together.

They are called “Keys of Happiness.”

We try to regain our health by working with the energy of the Earth that the Masters gave us.

As Sasha predicted, a man appeared in my life. Like-minded person. Together with Victor, we wrote a script for Sasha’s book. And now the most important life project for us is to make a film on it, beautiful, optimistic and wise. As with Sasha, Victor and I travel to different countries, we relax and at the same time carry out the instructions of the Masters. There are moments that cannot be realized without human participation.

ECG: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

ES: I’m very glad that I found out about the Eurasian Creative Guild.

For me it’s just a gift of fate. Having been to Guild events, I saw many individual personalities who are interesting to communicate with. I believe that the young members of the Guild are very lucky, because they receive support and attention from experienced leaders. I would like to thank Marat Akhmedzhanov and Saniya Seyilkhanova. It remains only to create and grow further.

ECG: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

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LITERATURE Following his heart means that he is shortly heading back to the region and new adventures in Uzbekistan, where he is looking forward to meeting new people and hopes to continue to develop and share his experiences.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

GS: When you are asked to tell people about yourself and what you do it should be easy to answer but as I get older, I find my life has so many facets that there is no simple answer. Technically I am a teacher, which I have been doing all over the world for over thirty years. Initially I trained as a designer – solving problems and developing creative solutions. I suppose that is what I do in my teaching too, only I get to do it with open minded and ingenious young people. I am also a writer, artist and entrepreneur, encouraging other people to develop their own work and ideas.The confidence to do these things only really came about after moving to Central Asia. I felt I could really make a difference and the people’s enthusiasm and positivity was infectious and really got under my skin. I was able to set up my own company and move away from a traditional 9 to 5 existence. With the support of amazing colleagues, I was able to undertake projects training teachers, developing older students, even some acting and voice over work and supporting traditional artists in expanding their work. For the past two years I carried out similar work (on a smaller scale) in India and I am sure that where ever I go, I will focus on helping others. I have grand plans for the future so watch this space!

GARETH STAMP Gareth is originally from the UK, with Welsh routes and heritage. He originally trained as a designer and then, over thirty years ago, he found his passion for education, both teaching shared ideas and learning new things every day.

He worked in Kazakhstan for nearly nine years in a wide variety of educational settings; from new government initiatives, universities and international schools through to volunteering with young people and adults in the regions and in neighbouring Kyrgyzstan. In 2018 he was awarded a gold medal for his contribution to Design Education in Kazakhstan.

He is a well-respected photographer and writer, documenting his travels and encounters He regularly exhibits his art work, contributes articles to journals and online publications and has recently been able to focus on writing and illustrating children’s books – the first of which will be published in the Summer of 2020.

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OCA:What is “Eurasianism” for you?

GS: I have always considered myself as European, but it was only when I moved to Kazakhstan nearly ten years ago that I realised how insular even that label was. Central Asia is an amazing place with stunning landscapes, untapped culture and history and the warmest people. I also found the amazing connections that exist linking east and west. Whether it is the history of nomadic tribes, the artistic culture or agriculture there is so much to link us. Central Asia is almost the common glue that holds it together. I am ashamed to say how little I knew about the region but the more I learnt the more I realised the commonality and the opportunities there are culturally.

OCA: What are your favourite artists?

GS: Art has always been in my blood, I remember winning a drawing competition when I was about five years old and my work being put on the wall at school – its lovely being praised for something I enjoy doing. Through my formal training I studied Art History and visited some of the great museums, but it was coming across artists unexpectedly that

have made their biggest mark on me. An exhibition of Japanese Art in London in the 1980s introduced me to print makers, an exhibition of Hundertwasser’s work, Picasso’s paintings done as a child, Raoul Dufy’s amazing theatre work all have their influence, but it is often the little-known book illustrators who have had the most influence. Everyday pictures held in your hand rather than on a gallery wall, the graphic novel or even the familiar ladybird book and also the film poster or vinyl LP cover, these have been the real inspiration to me. I am now able to bring together experiences and techniques in a much more confident and complete manner – it’s only taken me fifty years!

OCA:Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

GS: I always seem to be working or travelling when the London events are on – It is a poor excuse as I follow the extensive calendar of events that ECG deliver and this year I intend to be at a number of the events – I am particularly looking forward to the Literary Festival and the Film festival.

That is a promise!

OCA:What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

GS: The Eurasian Creative Guild has been a great support and encouragement to me in my work. It has also been a great way to meet authors and other creative people in the Central Asian region. In Kazakhstan we regularly held meetings to discuss the work of the group and to share the work of individuals. It also gave me an excuse to read new works when I was asked to proof read translations or to review works.The insight this has given me into the publishing word has spurred me on to analyse my ideas and complete my own works. Getting the novel out of one’s head is the hardest thing but meeting other ECG members has been a real catalyst for me.

OCA:Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

GS: As an artist I have always been fascinated by the link between the visual work and the story that the artist is trying to tell. As I have already mentioned I love the book illustrators bringing works to life and so I decided to produce a number of illustrated children’s books – these are recent, and I have had to put my short stories and the novel on the back burner for the time being.They are all based around the relationship between nature and man and the relationships between different animals. They have been produced during my time in India and have a more ‘tropical’ feel but I hope to continue the series when I move back to Central Asia later

in the year. The first one will be published this summer and is about the relationship between an Egret and a Cow! Although I am a teacher, I had to test the books out on a new younger audience, including my nephew in the UK, and I had to rethink what I wanted to get across in the illustrations without destroying the readers own imagination.

OCA:What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

GS: Over the coming twelve months I plan to set up an arts centre and gallery where students can come and learn new techniques and display their work. I am also determined to reinstate a number of exhibitions of my own that were cancelled due to the global situation. These include a series of portraits of everyday people I have met in my travels – each has a story to go with it and I am using a number of traditional techniques in a modern way. I also hope to continue writing, there are a number of other children’s books in the pipe line and the ‘novel’ is itching to be released from my mind too!

OCA:What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

GS: We are entering a very different world, where I hope that the value of creativity and particularly writing will be seen as more important. The last few months have made people revisit their old record collections, view art in virtual galleries and share their favourite classic books. These people are now looking for their new classic book – an inspiration or a gripping tale that they can share in the future.

Now is the perfect time to get your story into print, your film script polished or your art exhibition ready . I know how hard it is to take that leap of faith but with the help and support of the Guild you will find it is not as scary as you think. We are all rethinking our lives and if now is not the time when is?

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LITERATURE worries. Thanks to my meeting many Italian friends in the fields of music, theater, literature, and cinema have allowed me to gain a certain maturity and a real self development.

In 1998, another trip took me towards a new country and a new town Montpellier (France) where I have been working and living ever since. First of all, I have published two political essays and then four poetry essays : “this meadow of words” 2007, « fleeting moments » 2017, « A being without shadow » 2018, « reflexion of the verb » 2019. My poetry work has been published and translated in nine languages. 1995, I was awarded a journalism prize by « Giornalistà estera » at the Milan Press Club. In october 2019, I received a silver medal at the international literature forum (LIFFT) in Baku (Azerbaijan). Finally, I was awarded in January 2018 a price at the International Poetry contest in Paris under patronage of the European Academy sciences arts letters.

HAMID LARBI Hamid Larbi is a journalist and poet, born in Algiers, currently lives at Montpellier. He is the author of various essays and poetry collections translated into Spanish, Italian, Russian, Ukrainian, Romanian, Arabic and Serbian languages. He received the journalism award from the Press Circle of Milan for Giornalistàesterain Milan, Italy.He won the Silver Medal at the International Festival of Literature (LIFFT) in Baku (Azerbaijan). He was awarded the International Poetry Contest, Concours International de Poésie, « L’amour de la liberté » from the European Academy of Science, Arts and Letters in France. He also received the commemorative medal of TarasChevchenko and was elected as a member of the academy as well. Member of the Movimieto Poetas del Mundo. He has also participated in various poetry festivals worldwide.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

HL: I am a journalist and a poet. I was born in Algiers. I lived in Milan for five years. After a long period of uncertainty and

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OCA: What does poetry mean to you?

HL: When I started writing poetry. My ignorance was high . Ignorance of who I was. Ignorance of the realities of life.

Ignorance of what I was going to ask from life… over the years and after many travels and questionings . It appeared to me that I wrote to pull myself out of the confusion, to free myself from certain hindrances, trying to be myself. So, without knowing it, I was getting myself in a long and disturbing adventure of self acknowledgement. I was convinced that poetry is the substance that generates in myself this peacefulness that feeds my dreams. Artistic creativity contributes enormously to my self development but mostly to hope to reach this harmony between my body and mind.

Poetry must provoke a kind of escape and dreams. Poems of poetics when they mention the lost civilisations, the unknown worlds, creates this kind of escape outside of reality.

The magic of poetry comes from the dialogue between the poet and the pain. Poetry has other functions; it stimulates reflexions of great seriousness, it can also generate awareness, to give notice to tragic human existence. It leads man towards the truth which lights their way by affirming their faith in humanity and their optimistic confidence in the future of man.

OCA: What role should culture have?

HL: I would answer your question with a quote « culture allows a man or a woman to rise above himself or herself.

Culture is an aspiration to freedom ». Culture is an open window to the wild world and to be curious. It opens someone’s mind to the new universe either technical, artistic, scientific or historical.The diversity of languages in the world is a great richness. Sharing culture is an extraordinary impulse

to break imaginary walls, borders and ideologies of exclusion. Knowledge is the only barrier to obscurity and racism.

A woman or a man without culture is a tree without fruits.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

HL: Eurasianism is a space where exchange and above all a place of emancipation between different cultures. Culture in its all forms is a vision of a world without borders which reminds us that we belong to the human genre.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

HL: I read to surpass myself, to rise up and mostly to love. I discovered these sensations in many writers such as Nicolas Gogol. I was fortunate enough to visit his museum in Poltava (Ukraine), the French writer Margue Marguerite Duras, Ernest Hemingway and Samuel Beckett. I had opportunity to meet also Marsel Salimov a member of Eurasian guild and russian poet Konstantin Kedrov the great specialist of the russian poet Alexandre Pouchkine at the fourth LiFFt Eurasian Literary Festival in Baku (Azerbaijan).

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

HL: I took part in the 4th LiFFt Eurasian Literary Festival which was held in Baku from September 30th to October 3rd 2019. I am hoping to be part of 4th Eurasian culture week from October 6th to October 16th 2020 in London and in the 9th literary festival and book forum of November 2020.

odyssey of the imaginary ‘’ which will come out in September 2020, this collection will be published in France with calligraphic illustrations in latin. I have an audio CD of 22 poems bound to come out at the end of the year.The copyright will be donated to an association that helps children in Africa. ‘I am’ a mediteranean poet anthology which will be published by Harmattan Edition in 2021.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

HL: I participated in several international festivals of poetry and literature in Roumania, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Morocco, Italy, Mexico and France. I will be present from August 29th to September 5th 2020 at the international poetry festival of Medellin (Colombia). I would certainly be pleased to take part next year at « Open Eurasian Literature Festival ‘’ organized by the Eurasian Creative Guild and hopefully my first novel will be published next year.

OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

HL: This Guild is a big place where people of different artistic, literary synergies meet. It is an international association which promotes values on which it was funded. A great job had been done by the organizers and I think particularly of my friend Marat Akhmedzhanov, who devoted himself to giving birth to many literary forums and artistic events organised every year.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

HL: It is the venue of artistic and literary creation with the writers, poets and artists.

It is a showcase for the works of all these artists. The most important thing is to discover the artistic creations of the anglosaxon world. As matter of fact I took part in the « Friends Voices’’ Poetry Almanah » with two poems which were published in English and Russian. I am convinced that the Eurasian Creative Guild can convey these intrinsic values and to be a bridge between two continents.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

HL: I have already several projects underway this year, a collection of poems « the

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LITERATURE playwright and songwriter – and a literary translator. I work entirely from my ancient home with its beautiful roof garden right in the centre of London, but translation gives me a wonderful window on the world. I don’t speak any foreign languages, but collaborating with native speakers has opened up a wealth of literature especially from Russia and Central Asian languages.

I feel deeply privileged to have been given the chance to put into English for the first time the works of great writers such as Vladimir Vysotsky and Ravil Bukharaev. Personally, it’s hugely enlightening to learn and understand how writers from such different cultures and faiths think. But I also think that sharing literature and art is one of the best ways of building bridges of understanding and emotion across the world – and making the world richer and kinder for it. That is hugely important right now, with the world so divided and frightened.

JOHN FARNDON John is an author, playwright, songwriter and poet, and chairman of the Eurasian Creative Guild. He is the author of over thousand books on many topics, and has been shortlisted for the Young People’s Science Book Prize five times. He is also a translator of literature from Russia and Central Asia. He was joint winner of the European Bank Literary Prize 2019 for the translation of Uzbek writer Hamid Ismailov’s The Devil’s Dance and Finalist for the US PEN Translation Award 2020 for his translation with Olga Nakston of Kazakh author Rollan Seisenbayev’s The Dead Wander in the Desert. www.johnfarndon.com OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

JF: I earn my living mostly writing non-fiction books and so far I’ve written well over a thousand. I write on just about every topic, and it’s such a pleasure learning new things all the time.

But I write especially on science and nature – which is one reason, I’ve become deeply concerned about the ecological and climate crisis the world faces.You cannot write about it and not be aware that we are in deep, deep trouble! But I’m also a poet,

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OCA:What is “Eurasianism” for you?

JF: I’ve not heard this phrase before, but to be honest, I’m distrustful of blanket terms like this which try to label varied cultures or catch an imaginary wave. But I do think that there is something rather wonderful happening across Eurasia. Ancient Central Asian cultures, so long in the shadows of world consciousness that they were in danger of vanishing, seem to be emerging into the light again; and rightly – they have so much to offer.Yes, there are problems, but it’s no accident that people in the West are beginning to get excited by the history and culture of the ‘Silk Road’, as they call it, even though the view here maybe full of misunderstandings. It’s no accident, I feel, that in the last year Central Asian books have been involved in major literature prizes for the first time – and I was lucky enough to have had a hand in two. First the wonderful Uzbek writer Hamid Ismailov’s The Devil’s Dance, for which I translated the poertry, won the European Bank RD literature prize in 2019. Second, this year the Kazakh writer Rollan Seysenbaev’s epic The Dead Wander in the Desert, which I translated with Olga Nakston, was a finalist for the US PEN Translation Award. So watch this space! I am sure there are more to come.

OCA: What are your favourite artists?

JF: Ah, I have so many! Of course, I love British writers such as Shakespeare and Blake, Dickens and Hopkin, and the wonderful Irish and Scottish writers who also write in English. I could spend months waxing about their merits. They have shaped our culture and given it the richness and depth which the false patriots of Brexit utterly miss. I love our music, too – it’s rich heritage of traditional songs, and the new writers emerging all the time. I am blessed to know such young talents as Zoe Wren, Ayanna Witter-Johnson, Kim Lowings, Flora Curzon and Luke Jackson. You may not have heard of them yet, but you should.

But this is a Eurasian magazine, so I will venture further afield!

Which playwright could not fall in love with the plays of Chekhov, whose subtle dramas show the deep tragedy and comedy of life in such small details, multum in parvo, or which poet not love Pushkin, with his intoxicating use of language, his romance, passion and vision? But I’ve been lucky enough to discover art-

ECG Chairman ists from Central Asia, too. I’ve got to say one of the towering talents is Hamid Ismailov. I am convinced he will be seen as one of the great writers of this century, and his short novel The Dead Lake is true masterpiece. And my favourite painting right now, because I see it all time on my wall, is a large and wonderfully atmospheric painting from 1960 by a Ukrainian artist whose name escapes me of Kiev’s Mariensky Park in winter.Two lovers walk, wind and rainswept into the distance, between the ranks black trees bedded in snow. The dark slushy path with it coloured reflections and the headlights like stars in the gloomy street beyond create a vision of hope. It’s a true masterpiece, worthy of a great gallery, which I am very lucky to possess.

OCA:Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

JF: Yes indeed. They are remarkable events bringing writers and artists from many countries together. It’s so wonderful to see writers from Moldova to Moscow meet and share their work, and to have a chance to share my work too. Remarkably, thanks to the tireless and inspirational efforts of Marat Ahmedjanov, and a new team of incredibly committed and energetic interns, this year – the year the world went Into lockdown – is proving the most dynamic and exciting yet. The calendar is packed with events, and the ECG’s regular zoom meetings, each covering a different topic, are proving absolutely fascinating.We are not cut of at all, but making new connections.

OCA:What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

JF: The ECG is a very special organization, and it is true privilege to be connected through it to artists across Eurasia. Amazingly, they feel like my family. How extraordinary to say that! And right now, that international kinship seems so, so important as boundaries, physical and emotional, real and imaginary, divide us in such a dangerous way. I am chairman of ECG this year and next, and I feel deeply touched to be in this fortunate position.

Being part of ECG has enabled me to work with great poets such as Belarusian Anna Komar and Uzbek Xosiyat Rustamova, amazing painter Alesia Issa and 3D artist Emile Goozairow, and get to know the, work of many more. In one’s own country, one can sometimes feel limited and marginalized. But the international companionship In the ECG show inspire with their wider vision – and it’s that shared and varied artistry and vision that keep me more optimistic about the future in these rather dark times.

OCA:Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

JF: Next year, thanks partly to ECG and Marat, I hope to be bringing to English audiences for the first time the famous Kazakh opera Abai by Latif Khamidi and Akhmet Zhubanov, on a libretto by Mukhtar Auezov. The idea is that we’ll do a compact touring version, with music brilliantly condensed by Australian Warren Wills, to take to the more offbeat venues where younger and more varied audiences go. We have been blessed by the

enthusiastic support of the Kazakh embassy in London, and in particular His Excellency Erian Idrissov and Counsellor Dana Masalimova.We were hoping to get it on this year and take it to the Edinburgh Festival amongst other places. But the pandemic means that it will have to be next year now! I’ve also got a musical I wrote, Anya, set mainly in Russia but also in the USA in the decades after the war, which I would love to see staged somewhere in Eurasia, and play about Pushkin. I’m deeply involved in translations too. But like many writers and artists, I can’t help but be stirred by the state of the world. Over the last year, for instance, I’ve been helping create work for the climate activists Extinction Rebellion including a poem with music by Lewis Murphy for mass audience participation, performed across the UK. This kind of work is hugely important to me, and I’d like to see it reach even further OCA:What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

JF: Actually one of the most amazing projects I’ve been involved in was the #Resolution2020 choir projects. The driving force behind it is London theatre director Abbey Wright, and the idea was to get choirs, singers and families around the world to sing their version of the specially written song World on Our Shoulders and make a resolution to solve the climate and ecological crisis. So many ECG members joined in such as Anna Komar and Ilona Vilit in Belarus, and It was truly amazing to see people from most countries in the world, from villages and cities, young and old, come together to contribute versions of amazing power, beauty and commitment. To hear kids singing in harmony and hope, to see brilliant artists employ their talent for the good of the world, to find people who live in situations of strife sing out in unison – this is truly moving and inspirational. Last week, in a completely different vein, I was performing In the first English version (online, of course) of a play created by the amazing Teatr.Doc of Moscow and translated by Alex Thomas about the trial of Chechen human rights activist Oyub Titiev.

But of course there’s a host of ECG events, including the creation of the Almanac of Poetry and the Open Eurasia Festival with its amazing array of contests and opportunities for writers and artists across Eurasia.

OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

JF: Luck, inspiration, persistence and happiness – but above all the courage and vision to see and speak the truth. Don’t create what someone tells you create ¬– create what you absolutely need or want to create.That should be a given, unless of course you’re working to commission... ;) But going your own way doesn’t mean staying in a bubble. Learn your craft from the best, and never stop learning. Learn about the world. And think about your audience. Artistry is sometimes called a gift – and that’s just what art should be: a gift to your audience and the world.

Mostly, though, I just wish you support, friendship and love.

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LITERATURE I was born in Uzbekistan, spent my childhood and school years in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus, and graduated university in Kazakhstan. After graduation and receiving my PhD, I taught economics in Central Asian and Caucasus countries.

My extended family moved to various parts of the world – Germany, Hungary, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Canada.

Today, I live in the USA. I proudly consider myself a citizen of the world.

For most people, the childhood years are the most memorable and personality shaping; throughout life one often returns to them. It is, for this reason, I focus the plots on my books on the Central-Asian part of the world – in countries like Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine. My characters, however, live in various continents – Europe, America, Asia, and are connected through physical or spiritual bonds.

LARISSA PRODAN Larissa was born in Uzbekistan, her childhood and youth were spent in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. She graduated from university in Kazakhstan. After receiving her PhD, I taught economics in Central Asian and Caucasus countries.

At the moment she lives in the USA. She’s a prose writer. Her historical novel “The Fine Thread of Fate”, translated into English in 2014, became a bestseller in the United States. In 2019, her books were presented at the Moscow International Book Fair.

OCA: Tell me about yourself and your creative work. How did your journey start?

LP: My name is Larissa Prodan. I am a writer. I write under the name: Lara Prodan. I was born and raised in a country - the USSR, that no longer exists on any of the world maps because it was dismembered into fifteen independent republics. Till today, I view USSR as my homeland, because

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

LP: I am very fortunate and grateful to be an active member of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) – an organization that connects creative and interesting people not only in the Eurasian territory but all over the world. The first event that I participated in through the Guild was a Literacy Week in London held in October of 2018. There I presented my new at that time book “Why are we so alike?”, which was published by Hertfordshire Press. I was very impressed by the seriousness, scale, and intellectual agenda of the event, which included the participation of various international writers from countries like Great Britain, Belarus, Russia, Israel, USA and Kazakhstan.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity? Did you take part at our Open Eurasian Literary Festival?

LP: For an author, each presentation is a form of an exam before their readers and colleagues. The Guild fosters an environment for creative people to communicate, share ideas, and get to know each other. The Eurasian Open Literacy Festivals that are organized by the Guild plays an important role in bringing writers together from all over the world.

For us, writers, these festivals have become a much-anticipated celebration, which we all await and prepare for. Within the framework of the festivals, many competitions take place for writers and poets. The spirit of healthy competition, which these activities create, is important for every creative person. In 2018, I too participated in the short story competition with my children’s book “How the Hedgehog Taught the Fox Manners”, and in 2019 with my story “Smeda”. Both times my pieces were well recognized and made it to the fi-

nals. I hope that I, along with all other members of the Guild, will be able to participate in the Open Eurasian Literary Festival in 2020.

OCA: What ECG projects do you plan to participate in?

LP: Today, the whole world is going through an uncertain and difficult time, a time of forced isolation. However, even when isolated and self-guaranteed, the members of the Guild continue to meet through online Zoom conferences. The nature of these conferences includes various subjects and themes that are relevant in today’s world. Unfortunately, the meetings are held at 2 pm Moscow time, which translates to 4 am time in Seattle, USA – which for me causes some difficulty in participating. While I am a relatively passive member of the online conferences, I proactively seek information online on the topics discussed, inclusive of discussions of topics and issues on social blogs.

want your work to be noticed and recognized, I recommend belonging to the Eurasian Creative Guild. The Guild will very attentively care for their young talent, and will help open the doors into the creative path forward. It will allow for you to participate in various organized events; inspiring writers, poets, screenwriters, artists, and photographs to only express themselves, but also to promote their creativity, and, most importantly, learn from others and communicate with each other.

ISBN: 978-1-910886-54-0

I think one of the forms of promoting creative art could be reading of the poetry or short stories by the writers during the Zoom meetings. The Eurasian Creative Guild today serves not only as a gathering platform for writers and poets, but also for painters, photographers, filmmakers, and musicians. Such a diverse platform opens doors and provides a collective environment for people of all creative work. In my opinion, the opportunities of creative collaboration are endless – what I mean by that is that filmmakers can partner with writers, photographers and illustrators can support the works of the written form.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

LP: I would like to speak to the younger generation, who are embarking on a wonderful journey of creative expression. As you know, one in the field is not a warrior. You can, of course, work at your table, write your own work, and periodically admire the works of others. But, if you truly

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LITERATURE OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

LS: I am a Tatar poet living in the city of Kazan in the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation. I am the author of more than twenty books published in several languages: Tatar (Kazan, Naberezhnye Chelny), English (London), Russian (Moscow, Yakutsk), Kirghiz (Bishkek), and Bashkir (Ufa). My work is divided equally between books for children - verses, fairy tales, riddles, and so on - and more adult verses, poems and short stories, alongside tracts based on research. I am a Candidate of Philological Sciences, winner of Tatarstan, Russian, and international awards, and an Honoured Art Worker of the Republic of Tatarstan.

As chief editor at the Tatarstan Book House, I translate poetry from Russian, Bashkir, Kirghiz, Kazakh and other languages, and compile books of Tatar classical literature and encyclopaedias of children’s literature. My whole life has been inseparably connected with books.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

LS: “Eurasianism” to me, is the huge literary heritage of the brotherly peoples of the Soviet domain and the Turkic world.

The modern Tatars are an intrinsic part of a huge Turkic world, rich in ancient history and culture. Though now divided, we continue to preserve our mother tongues, culture, customs, and national spirit.

LENAR SHAEKHOV Lenar (Lenar Shaekhov), a Tatar poet, children’s writer, translator, publicist. Born on 4 October 1982 in the village of Taktalachuk of the Aktanyshsky District of the Republic of Tatarstan (Russia). Graduated from the Menzelinsk Pedagogical College, Department of Tatar Philology and History of Kazan State University, Post Graduate Programme. Chief Editor of the Tatarstan Book House. Author of twenty four books. Member of Union of Writers of the Republic of Tatarstan and Tatar PEN-Center and PEN International, Union of Journalists of Tatarstan and Russia, as well as of International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), and Eurasian Creative Guild (London).Winner of the Musa Jalil Republic’s Award, Abdulla Alish Literary Award (for achievements in children’s literature), the Volga Region Literary Award “NEWBOOK.Volga-2015”, Eurasian International Award. Academician of International Public Academy of Poetry of Omor Sultanov of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan. Candidate of Philological Sciences. Honoured Artist of the Republic of Tatarstan.

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OCA: What are your favourite artists?

LS: My work has been inspired by many great writers, including first and foremost, the founder of modern Tatar literature, Gabdoullah Tukay; authors of classical works Derdmend, Gayaz Ishaki, Musa Jalil, Fatih Karim and Amirkhan Yeniki; and Tatarstan’s national poets, Gamil Afzal and Ildar Yuzeyev. I admire the work of Russian classicists Alexander Pushkin, Mikhail Lermontov, Anna Akhmatova and Boris Pasternak, and from further afield, that of Omar Khayyam, Byron Goethe and Heine. With regard to contemporary Tatar literature, I was delighted to discover the work of Londonbased, Rustam Sulti, whose book of verses titled ‘Mosafir’, (‘Pilgrim’) was published last year. I consider him one of the most genial Tatar poets of our time.

OCA:Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

LS: I have been a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild since 2016 and have participated in every Open Eurasian Book Forum & Literature Festival. I first met Marat Akhmetjanov, festival organiser, founder and Vice Chair of the Guild, and Director of Hertfordshire Press Publishing House, as if by fate in Yakutia, where we were both honoured

guests at the international poetry festival ‘The Blessing of the Big Snow’.

I am immensely grateful to Marat-efendi for introducing me to the Guild and for his hard endeavours in sharing our work with the world. Writers cannot afford to hide and linger in the shadows and nor can they afford to be merely wordsmiths. In order to succeed, he or she must also master business skills and be prepared to act as their own literary agent.

OCA:What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

LS: The Eurasian Creative Guild offers a large union of creative people a means of communication through which creative acquaintances and close friendship develop. The whole world is like one big’ kazan’, or cauldron, bubbling with numerous opportunities for the promotion of one’s art. Creative people cannot withdraw into themselves. In order to thrive, they require a constant stream of new stimuli through exposure to new people, new cultures, new ideas, new sources of inspiration… And that is exactly what the Guild provides.

From a personal perspective, membership of the Guild has helped me stay positive and given me the impetus to develop my work.

sian by Bichik, Yakutia’s national publishing house. I continue working in this genre and hope that one day, my work will be available in Bashkir, Chuvash, Udmurt, as well as in English.

Over the past few years, I have also written many lyrical and philosophical verses, which I want to publish as a new collection.

In addition to writing, I am heavily involved in the Tatarstan Book House which I founded in 2015. We publish works

by Kirghiz, Yakut, and Crimean Tatar authors and to date, I have complied over forty books and translated six. In May 2020, I edited and contributed to the translation into Tatar, an ‘Anthology of the Yakut Poetry’, the fifth in a series to appear under the umbrella of ‘Turkic Literature’. Last year, we published ‘Selected Works’ by Alexander Pushkin in our mother tongue and will soon launch a collection of verses

by Sergei Yesenin, again in Tatar.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

LS: My key advice for new writers is to work hard and keep moving forward. Don’t get discouraged by failures. If you have ideas and something to say, follow your path. Literature enrichens people’s souls, makes their hearts kinder, and broadens their vision. So, grasp your pen tightly and believe me, success will surely follow!

OCA:What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

LS: In 2017, Hertfordshire Press published a book of my poems entitled “One of You”.Translated into English by Dana Zheteyeva, it included a foreword by David Perry, who was also the editor. To have my work presented in the country of Shakespeare’s birth was beyond my wildest dreams! In the same year, I won second place in the Small Prose category of the Open Eurasian Book Forum & Literature Festival in Stockholm.Then in 2019, in Brussels, I received the Generals for Peace Award for the best work dedicated to the theme of consolidation of peace, friendship and mutual understanding between peoples. As for current projects, I am now preparing my submission for the ninth Open Eurasian Book Forum & Literature Festival in tandem with finalising a draft of ‘Modern Tatar Prose’, for a forthcoming launch in Paris.

I praise the Almighty for granting me such a plenitude of ideas and projects!

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

LS: My first children’s book was recently published in Rus-

ISBN: 978-1-910886-47-2

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LITERATURE I’m also the member of the ball committee of the Center for Russian Culture in the Republic of Moldova; I’m a laureate of the Yesenin Prize in 2019, representative of the international competition of Russian culture “Sources” in Moldova.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

MP: Recently, thanks to Marat Akhmedhanov , I discovered new friends - these are like-minded people who live in different parts of the Earth. In order to communicate, the Eurasian Creative Guild unites Europe and Asia, as well people from all ends of the Earth, which helps promote the projects of each of them.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

MP: Alexander Pushkin and Vasily Zhukovsky, Shota Rustaveli and Chingiz Aitmatov, Matsuo Basho and Musa Jalil, Alexander Ostrovsky and William Shakespeare, Mikhail Eminescu and Hans Christian Andersen, Omar Khayyam and Baltasar Gracian.

MARINA PODLESNAIA Marina Podlesnaya was born in Moldova. She’s a poet, writer, museographer of the House-Museum of A.S. Pushkin in Chisinau, member of the Administrative Council of the Writers’ Union of Moldova A. S. Pushkin; board member and member of the ballroom committee of the Center for Russian Culture of the Republic of Moldova; organizer and presenter of the Pushkin lecture hall in the municipal library named after MV Lomonosov, as well as others, including children’s and youth events.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work?

MP: I’m the museographer of the A.S. Pushkin House-Museum in Chisinau, a member of the Union of Writers of Moldova named after A. S. Pushkin; member of the Eurasian Creative Guild ECG (London), member of the Association of Guides and Translators of the Republic of Moldova and WFTGA, member of the Club of History Lovers of Chisinau.

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OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

MP: The Eurasian Creative Guild gives everyone a unique chance to be themselves and be heard - anyone who wants to can join the Guild and express themselves on an international level.

I’m very delighted to be a member of the Guild and carry on being part of it.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

MP: It’s very exhibiting and takes a lot of responsibility to participate in international contests, to express yourself and represent your country at the same time. But in order for the world to become a better place, the world must live in peace. In my opinion, it is worth introducing each other at international contests and showing your interest to your friends, but not to impose someone’s opinion, yet to give the ability to touch cultural values without making conflicts.

Then the feeling of friendly warmth and happiness will not be forgotten.

Who am I? I am a curious person who is interested in what is happening around me, with others. It turns out that I’m interesting! I talk about those whom I love - about my Pushkin, about Eminescu, about Maria Biesha, about others and about myself.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

MP: I took part in projects in Chisinau with great pleasure. I also take part in weekly Zoom meetings of Eurasia Creative Guild and also monitor the success of other members of the Guild.

MP:I want to thank the Guild that has already opened my eyes to Pushkin, to Eminescu and to Aitmatov at their events, and thank everyone who lives, who, knowing the world themselves, share their creative discoveries!

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

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LITERATURE ceremonies. It was an experience which led to my studying history at Tomsk State University, and later, a career in journalism.

I worked as a correspondent for a military newspaper for seventeen years, covering stories about war veterans and investigations into hitherto hidden events of World War II. Now freelance, I have edited two books of people’s stories of the Second World War but focus primarily on ethnic and scientific subjects.

I began writing books in 2000, and to date, am the author of six publications, four of which are based on native people’s beliefs and customs, and shaman practices.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

NB: To me, “Eurasianism” is a bridge that links writers and artists from different countries and even continents. It is a bridge that provides unity through the sharing and promotion of ideas and projects. That, coupled with the potential to publish my books in England, is the reason I joined the Eurasian creative Guild in 2017.

NINA BELOMESTNOVA Nina Belomestnova is a freelance journalist, historian (anthropologist), writer. Engaged in scientific and ethnic journalism.

In journalism, holder of the titles “Journalist of Siberia”, 2016, “Golden Pen of Russia”, 2017 Winner of the Y. Rytkheu International Literary Prize in 2016 for the nomination “small prose”.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

NB: My name is Nina Belomestnova. I was born and raised amongst the Evenki in a remote village in the north of Siberia’s TransBaikal region where both my parents were doctors. The indigenous Evenki are mainly hunters and reindeer breeders.They are also shamans and growing up in the community allowed me to witness, first-hand, local customs and

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OCA: What are your favourite artists?

NB: My favourite writers are Russian authors Nikolai Gogol, Ivan Bunin; the Soviet writer Isaak Babel, and the post -Soviet writer Varlam Shalamov. I admire the paintings of Russian artists Boris Kustodiev and Mikel (Mikhail) Vrubel, and have a strong interest in Japanese art.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

NB: I have participated in the annual Eurasian Literary Festivals, organized by the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) since 2017. I particularly like the judging process which by commending a book, short story or poem, en-

courages people to read and then recommend it to others.

I also enjoy the sense of close unity amongst members and cherish the camaraderie and support of like-minded creative people.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

NB: I am currently working on two books, the first of which is titled: ‘The Ethnography of Siberian Shamans (Trans-Baikal region): Past and Present’. The second, for which I am now investigating crimes against humanity committed by Japanese military bacteriologists, will be called: ‘Unknown Events of the Second World War’.

Apart from completing the above, my ambition is to have my articles and stories published in the OCA magazine.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

NB: My advice to anyone starting a creative career is to be active and open your eyes to the world around you. Remember: Feed your soul with lasting and interesting impressions and in due course, they will furnish your writing or artwork.

Here, at the ECG, you’ll find all the support you need and plenty of opportunities, open to all.

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LITERATURE “Girl dancing in the sky” a collection of lyric poems. Great mountains - 2019. “ “Dedication to Turar” Bishkek - 2015 “Kyzdar Ay” Great Mountains 2014 “Zholongo Yar Dest” Osoo Gulchynar 2015 Mekenge Taazim 2016 I’m also the winner of the contest of young poets “New Names” and the winner in the contest Besh Akyn.

The winner of the Open Eurasian Guild competition in the category of poetry in Brussels 2019 OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

SB: Open Eurasian Guild. This is an organization of talented creative people that unites over 50 countries of the world. And most importantly, it gives a chance to become famous on the international level.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

SB: Walt Whitman, Joseph Brodsky, Chyngyz Aitmatov, Lee Boy.

SAGYNBUBU BERKANALIEVA Sagynbubu was born in Kyrgyzstan. She has been a Member of the Union of Writers of Kyrgyzstan since 2014. She’s very interested in opera classical works, from time to time she’s singing opera. Sagynbubu Berkinalieva also performed on stages and expressively read the poems of Kyrgyz poets. Winner of a diploma for outstanding poetry and for active participation in the competition of young poets “Mekenge taazim” and “Besh Akin” 2017.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work?

SB: My name is Sagynbubu Berkinalieva Abdysamatovna. I’ve been a Member of the Writers Union of Kyrgyzstan since 2014. I wrote artworks such as: “Chan Baskan Barak” (Leaf covered with dust “collection.

Lyric poems.) Bishkek - 2014

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

SB: In 2019, I participated in the 8th forum of the Literary Festival of the Open Eurasian Guild in the poetry nomination and took 1st place and was awarded for the best female lyrics.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

SB: Having participated in the competition, a great change has happened in my life and artwork.

Thanks to the Guild, I became famous and was recognized as a poetess in 50 countries of the world.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

SB: Poetry is destiny; it happens suddenly.This is the state of mind of the poet.

Currently I’m writing a book about the work of brilliant poets like Walt Whitman, Lee Boy. OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

SB: I wrote many artwork about my country and participated in many competitions. I participated in an international competition and introduced my country Kyrgyzstan. I also have published many lyric collections.

In the future I want to participate in international festivals with the intention that the world will know more about my little homeland. I’m proud that I’m an active member of the Guild and I will try to take part in all projects of our Guild.

This year for instance I’m participating in the project “Voice of Friends”.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

SB: I wish the new members of the Guild success in creativity and inspiration. Only the Guild gives the fairest chance to express yourself.

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LITERATURE public of Azerbaijan; the Russian Union of Writers (RSP); the International Writers Union (COI) and the Writers’ Union of North America. In addition to being a laureate of various awards, I am a holder of ‘The Golden Pen of Russia’.

It is only now, after the passing of many years, that I am beginning to understand the meaning of life and my destiny. It is only after experiencing all the stages of cognition and picking up crumbs of wisdom, that one can reach a balance and peace of mind and spirit; in other words, attain appeasement or pacification.

How wonderful it is, to realize that your life is a success and you are happy, despite the hardships, losses, failures and burdens of fate, and that the formation of your character is almost complete. And this outcome is priceless. There are no material values that can equate the attainment of a meaningful position in life, founded on one’s ideals, ideology and principles, spiritual and inner beauty.

Belief in yourself, your abilities and capabilities, is one of the most necessary and important qualities in helping anyone find their way through life. My books are about the meaning of life; the pain, the good and evil inherent in our earthly existence, the formation of a child’s character… We all have our own destinies but not everyone has the opportunity to follow their true path. Anyone can fall but so too, can they achieve their goals, by finding the strength to rise and overcome obstacles. Life must be loved!

SARIYA MAMEDOVA Sariya Aga Mamad kyzy, graduated with honors from the institute, full-time postgraduate study. Since 1976, candidate of chemical sciences. Editor of the magazine “Society and Woman”. She is the owner of the “Golden Pen” by the Azerbaijani media, 2013.

Member of the Writers’ Union of Azerbaijan 01.16.1913 Member of the Russian Writers Union (RSP) since August 5, 2014.

Full member of the International Writers’ Union. (ISP) Winner of the “Golden Pen of Russia” 2018 Individual member of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London), 2020.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

SM: My creative practice gives me a wonderful state of mind and soul. Writing makes me feel needed and though my market is limited for now, I relish being able to communicate with people through my books and at forums, the opportunity to discuss, face to face, their misconceptions of such phrases as: “We only live once” or “Live for yourself.” These phrases are the fallacy since human beings should live with the aim of making this world a better place: kinder, nobler, purer and more morally truthful. I am happy when readers tell me: “If I had read your works earlier, my life would have turned out differently, for the better”. It was especially gratifying to hear that after reading “On Happiness,” a woman realized that she was actually happy! Imagine only being able to understand that as a result of reading a book!

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

SM: My name is Sariya Mamedova I’m a well-established writer, I am a member of the Union of Writers of the Re-

OCA: What are your favourite artists?

SM: I favour any creative people who command admiration and respect through work which leaves a strong and indeli-

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ble impression. Such people are both unforgettable and extraordinary, and I am grateful to have met many who became my role models.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

SM: I had the honour of becoming a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) in February 2020 after attending a presentation on the Guild’s objectives and activities by its Vice-Chairman Marat Akhmedjanov at the Yarat Art Museum in the Republic of Azerbaijan. It soon became clear that the Guild is Akhmedjanov’s mission in life, and the pride, zeal and enthusiasm with which he described the opportunities it affords creative people, was met with great excitement and inspired prolonged discussion between everyone in the room. When someone sets such high goals and purposely marches towards their realization, it is natural that creative people will be instilled with the desire to follow and lend their support. I was personally enthralled by his enthusiasm and that, coupled with the many different opportunities offered by a wide variety of events, spurred me to join the Guild.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

SM: The Guild offers the most effective means of communication through which we can learn about, exchange ideas and share our work with talented, creative people, living and working across the world.

Many people never have the chance to experience the beauty inherent in art and architecture, nor to plunge into the magical world of music, dance, poetry and literature; sublime and spiritual worlds in which we can rise above ourselves to become better and more noble beings. The direction in which society develops depends purely on how we educate our children and as creative practitioners, we all have an important role to play.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

SM: It has been a pleasure to contribute to the almanac ‘Voices of Friends’, in addition to entering this year’s Architectural Structures competition, and I look forward to participating in other ECG projects to both inspire my practice and bring maximum value in its prosperity.

In the future, I would like to see an increased focus in festivals and forums on the younger generation, to encourage participation by senior class and university elementary level students. An exemplary project which currently identifies and supports young gifted writers from around the world, is the multi-cultural competition, ‘Your Position.’

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

SM: Art, creativity and culture belong to a universal language that can unite us all and there is nowhere better to learn this language than the Guild. I would therefore recommend anyone embarking on a creative path to join ECG. Membership will help you to chant your culture not only in your own country, but also introduce your work to people living further afield. It is not enough to garner popularity and esteem at home; in order to grow and truly succeed, you must cross borders.

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LITERATURE in Edinburgh. It is truly a beautiful City and a fantastic location to live.

I took part at the Literature Festival organized by OCA magazine back in 2012.The festival took place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. For the event I presented Kyrgyz Si-Fi writer Begenas Sartov’s book ‘When the Edelweiss Flowers Flourish’ and six of his short stories which I had recently translated into English and had published.

Since then I have taken part at this Literature Event several times and presented my own books.

My first book was presented to the public in 2015 ‘Finding The Holy Path’ and the second book ‘Cold Shadows’ was released at the Literature Festival in 2017. This the second publication won the prize ‘Best book of the year’ award at the 2018 Festival. I was truly thrilled.

OCA: What does ‘Euroasianism’ mean for you?

SM: ‘Eurasianism‘ firstly means friendship and secondly cultural blend. Within each person, I believe there is a creative individual - this may be an artist, a writer, a filmmaker or a musician. Everyone has some form of expression and can find something to say and show to the world. We are all the same in many ways but our little differences and means of self-expression are what makes the human race so interesting.

SHAHSANEM MURRAY Shahsanem is a writer, film critic, translator, international business, tourism,. In 2001 she moved to Scotland, married.

I work in Edinburgh. Writer and translator. I work in a private company and do creative work in my spare time. I participate in Literary Festivals organized by the OCA Magazine team. I promote the Culture of the Northern Peoples and Central Asia in Scotland with colleagues.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activities/ work?

SM: I am an author, translator, and producer. I am currently studying Films at Edinburgh University. In 2001, I studied ‘Surrealism in Art and Films’ and this remains my main topic of interest.

After meeting and then marrying my husband, Gordon Murray, I have been living, working and enjoying the past 19 years

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OCA: Who are your favourite artist’s or filmmaker’s?

SM: I love music. I actually trained as a Grade 8 classical pianist. As well as Classical music, I have a deep affinity with Classic Rock with my favourite artists being Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel and the Norwegian group A-HA. Like many people of my age, this music is ingrained within me from my teenage years at University.

Notwithstanding they all have produced fantastic music that is timeless and often relates my thought and creative process as I put pen to paper for my novel writing. I actually think some of these artists will be regarded in higher and higher esteem as the years pass and will give similar inspiration to future generations.

My favourite filmmakers are Michael Curtiz, I do admire his film ‘Casablanca’. Federico Fellini, Krzysztof Kieslowski and many others.

OCA: How often you take part in the events organized by Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

SM: I try to support the events as much as possible I can.

The last time I attended was at the summer 2019 meeting in London. I am always happy to support and meet my colleagues and contemporaries.

ECG Ambassador OCA: How does the Eurasian Creative Guild affect your creative work?

SM:The main driver and founder of the Eurasian Creative Guild is Marat Akhmedjanov.

He came up with this wonderful idea where many talented, creative people can gather into one group and we can meet and share our works. I hope it will continue to grow into something big, and I am sure many members of this group still be supporting and helping for many young individuals.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

SM: Well in the past, we have held many events. We have a small Central Asian Community in Edinburgh, Scotland, which also regularly pulls in friends and colleagues from Glasgow.

An event that was interesting with theme ‘Shakespeare V Pushkin’ where each member of this small community were happily reading poems of greatest writers W. Shakespeare and A.S. Pushkin.

We gather at cultural events like Burns Night and recite his poetry. With the ‘Orzu Arts’ theatre, with their stage performance from London, we supported both them and a young singer from Uzbekistan.

In 2017, we organized a festival called ‘True Connection’. It was truly amazing to invite filmmakers Paul Morgan, Denis Filippov from Russia with their work. Artist from London

Gulzada Hamra took part as a participant-creating exhibition. Honoured guests Laura Hamilton and Marat Akhmedjanov. My friends and colleagues David Wingrove , Shirin Abdullaeva, Zaynab M. Dost, Brian Thomson, Rosie Sweetman , with whom we created small pop up theatre and managed to present small scenes with my own work and Norwegian writer Johan Alstad . Filmmakers D. Almazan, J. Mortoz created a film from this event.

These meetings and events are how we can reach our goal is to blend culture, literature brings into sense ‘Eurasianism’.

We can achieve something beautiful in the future festivals.

I will be continuing to work with different countries with this theme ‘True Connection’ to gather artists that are more interesting, bring into life book and poem reading culture.

I would like to continue this amazing journey despite all this hardship. Especially in this moment in time where we all in the lockdown.Very difficult to work and we all waiting when we do not have to be in two weeks quarantine after travelling. We need to create and work; it is already a biblical journey in many respects.

Finally, I would like to say my warm wishes to Eurasian Creative Guild to grow, never give up and continue the long journey to help young members.

Any creative work should have a place to be supported.

Good luck to all of us. Mainly in this moment!

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LITERATURE Laureate of the Lenin Komsomol Prize of Kyrgyzstan - Laureate of the T. Abdumomunov Prize Winner of the “Genghis Khan” gold medal OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity?

SR: You know the most difficult part for me to introduce myself. First of all, as a writer and playwright. Yes, I am the author of more than ten books and plays. My works have been translated into several languages of the world, including English. Each work of the writer is like a newborn child, it is a kind of revelation, insight, understanding of the world ...

My novels such as “Kara”, “Flood” have attracted a huge number of readers not only in my homeland, but also abroad.

Why do readers who do not have a clue about our culture, life, psychology and national colour, read with such surprise?

What’s the secret? The secret is that people understand human destinies, we are different but at the same we have different fates even though we love, suffer, experience the same way. We are united by common human emotions. Literature provides food for thought as a person to remain human.

SULTAN RAEV Sultan Akimovich is a writer, playwright. People’s Writer of the Kyrgyz Republic (2011). Laureate of the CIS Interstate Prize.

He’s known as an acclaimed playwright and theater director.

Author of more than two dozen plays. Performances based on his plays have repeatedly won victories, incl. Grand Prix, at theater festivals in Germany,Tatarstan, Uzbekistan,Tehran, etc.

In 2000 he was invited to the French Theater Arts Center. In 2002, he was awarded a personal invitation by Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain and took part in the celebrations of Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee at Buckingham Palace.

According to the results of 2007, BBC radio station (Great Britain) included Sultan Raev’s play “The Last Testament” in the rating anthology “Seven Wonders - Seven Best Plays in the World”.

Laureate of the State Prize of the CIS Laureate of the State Prize named after Toktogul

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OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

SR: Eurasianism is a new approach of the 21st century, which brings together human unity.The world is changing, as well as human relations those stereotypes of thinking that have separated us for a long time are being destroyed.We should not be united by misfortune, we should be united first of all by our minds. Eurasia should not be a political space, it should be a place where anyone can bring new ideas of the values of mankind. Eurasianism is a completely new discourse, the paradigm of a renewed world.

OCA: Name your favorite artists SR: I want to mention those great masters of English culture and literature such as Jeffrey Chaucer, poet and artist William Blake, writers Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, composer Edward Elgar, actor Richard Burton, as well as world culture legends William Shakespeare and Charlie Chaplin! Thanks to the great English language in the world there is mutual understanding and world peace.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

SR: In 2016, my novel “Kara” was presented in London. This is the most remarkable event in my creative life. I met with my readers at the Cambridge University, where the great Winston Churchill spoke. With great success, my book was presented, thanks to the support of the Eurasian Creative Guild.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity ?

SR: The Eurasian Creative Guild is a platform of creative people of East and West. The guild is a bridge of literature and culture.

Thanks to the Eurasian Creative Guild, I discovered new horizons and I got new acquaintances. The guild is aimed to popularize the work of writers in the European countries and it gave me the opportunity to expand the literary geography of my works.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

SR: My projects are my works. And I consider it premature to disclose literary plans.

OCA: In which projects have you participated and in which do you plan to take part?

SR: I was a participant in the first literary festival of the Eurasian Creative Guild, which was held in Bishkek in 2011.

Also I am the owner of the Grand Prix of the international literary competition in Stockholm. In 2016, Sweden, I was awarded the Heinrich Senkevich Literary Prize, a Nobel Prize laureate.

OCA: What would you advise to the members of the Guild who just started their career?

SR: I want to tell writers and poets that the Eurasian Creative Guild helped me to open the literary world, and it will certainly help you. It is an honour to be a member of the Guild!

ISBN: 978-1-910886-13-7

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LITERATURE tions of poems. I actively participate in contests at various venues, festivals, and participate in several literary unions and associations. And if in a few words - then I live a full-blooded literary life.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

VL: “Eurasianism” for me has a broader meaning than the unity of cultural values of Europe and Asia. I am a persona of the world! Therefore, for me - this is the unity of creative people from different countries, regardless of geographical and mental characteristics, of the whole world.

OCA: What are your favorite artists?

VL: Due to my high mobility, I often meet people with creative professions. And these people then turn into personal friendships that last for decades. Among the many favorite outstanding figures of our time, I want to mention Mikhail Kazinik - a popularizer of music, a person of encyclopedic knowledge; writer Boris Akunin - a man whom I adore the accuracy and imagery of his words; poet Joseph Brodsky, who for me always remains living in modern poetry and against which I compare my present day work.

VICTORIA LEVIN Victoria is a writer, poet born in the Chita region. Graduated from Moscow State Technical University. Bauman. Author of two novels and seven collections of poetry. She has been published in magazines in Israel, Russia, Germany, Bulgaria and others. Also she’s a Winner of the Russian Literary Prize medal.

Laureate of several international competitions and festivals.

Since 1997 he has been living in Israel, working as an engineer in the aircraft industry.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

VL: I used to position myself as a poet. Poems have been written along all my life, with little interruptions. Now the emphasis is shifting towards prose and journalism. In addition, I am happy to do translations from several languages.

Currently, I have more than twenty books, four of which are from the field of big prose, there is a collection of fantasy, a collection of journalism, the rest of the books are collec-

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

VL: Yes, in October 2018, I was lucky enough to attend Creative Week in London. Memories of this event still warm my heart! Wonderful people in magnificent London, new friendships that I made there, museums and exhibitions, a sensitive audience of highly intelligent people. Unforgettably! I presented my books “Not like everyone” and “Run away from Turner”.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

VL: Staying in London then, in October 2018, definitely expanded my creative horizons! I even wrote poetry in one gulp and read it on stage at the final meeting of Creative Week. And the remembrance of the wonderful people I met there, for a long time it excited my imagination! And then impressions gave way to reflections on the intersection of cultures, on the ways of developing the creative world, on the global, sometimes inexpressible, unity of the world and differences in mentality and worldview ... All these thoughts came to me after talking with representatives of Asian countries during my unforgettable week in London.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

ECG Advisory Board member VL: Currently, I started to work on the ECG expert council, the vice-chairman of the Journalism section. So the plans are huge! From personal plans - to continue a series of autobiographical novels, two of which have already been written, and the next three are still ripening in my head ... I want to quickly open the “closed borders” and attend my favorite international festivals, where I will meet with my favorite poets and writers who also dream to return to our beautiful wide communication!

develop their talent and make a “literary name”. Listen to professional advice, read good authors, expand the circle of literary communication, try your hand at competitions and festivals. The world will never appreciate your work written “within the table” and will never know about your potential if you yourself do not declare yourself! Therefore: write, participate, act!

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

VL: I have a very wide range of projects and literary employment! Principle: fly wherever you call and where there is an opportunity to enrich yourself and hang out creatively (in the good sense of the word). From each trip - I put new fresh ideas into the creative piggy bank and grow into new acquaintances in the creative world. Therefore, I try to participate in contests that I find on the Internet, and if I go to the finalists, I’m going there without hesitation for a long time! Previously, when I worked in engineering positions on serious aircraft construction projects, this was not possible. Now, in retirement, I can take advantage of such a gift of fate and attend creative forums and international literary festivals.

OCA: What would you wish the members of the Guild, just starting their career?

VL: I wish you openness to the world and new ideas!

Many are talented, but not everyone has the ability to

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LITERATURE It was only later on, that I turned almost exclusively and seriously to literary creativity and to date, have published nine books as well as several articles in newspapers and magazines. In 2013, I was accepted by the Union of Writers of Belarus, and as a contributor to the Military Scientific Society, published three papers on modern history and World War II. Inspired by my interest and respect for those in white coats who work with medical weapons that save people’s lives, I wrote about doctors practicing in the harsh wartime period.

Entitled ‘The Hippocratic Guards’, the book was translated into English and published in London in 2018. It received a number of high awards in Belarus and abroad and is the basis of a documentary to be screened on Medical Workers’ Day in Belarus on June 21st 2020. In addition to writing, I have spent the past two years editing the military magazine ‘Army and Culture’ and running a music and literature studio.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

VT: For me, the concept of “Eurasianism” is a set of actions and principles that can unite the peoples of Europe and Asia, ensure a peaceful sky over both continents, and promote prosperity in all spheres of life.

VLADIMIR TULINOV At the age of 27, Vladimir began writing poetry and articles, many of which were published in newspapers and magazines.

He graduated from two universities,and in 2011 his first book of a journalistic nature with the title “My language is my friend” was published. His other book such as “Guards of Hippocrates” - was highly appreciated in Belarus. Its circulation sold out quickly and the book was published in London in English language.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work VT: My career as a creative artist began when aged about thirty, my first poem ‘I Didn’t Look at Other Professions’, was published in a Soviet magazine.

I had always enjoyed singing and playing the accordion, guitar and drums as a hobby and in the nineties, in collaboration with the Belarusian composer Izmail Kaplanov, some three dozen of my poems were set to music.

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OCA: What are your favourite artists?

VT: Creative activity is a three-dimensional, multi-faceted concept. Anyone who is not indifferent to their cultural environment, has favourite artists working in theatre, film, music and the visual arts, and as a writer, I can cite various authors and poets whose work has had a significant impact on my own. Those whom I consider my mentors include: Jack London, Karel Chapek, Alexey Tolstoy, Sergei Yesenin, O. Henry, Vladimir Mayakovsky, Alexander Pushkin, Anna Akhmatova, Mikhail Sholokhov, Honore de Balzac, and George Byron.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

VT: I have participated in almost all of the Guild’s events in Minsk, the most memorable of which are performances by ‘Lithosphere’; an amateur theatre company headed by Anastasia Kuzmicheva, a talented poet and active member of both the Guild and the Belarus Union of Writers.

I also attend Guild members’ meetings in the City Art Gallery and in the library named after the famous Belarusian classical poet Yanka Kupala and each time, come away with new impressions and feeling positively charged; both of which are invaluable to the life and work of any creative person.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

VT: The Eurasian Creative Guild is a conceptual bridge linking the peoples of two continents and offers a platform for the free exchange of opinions and an in-depth study of the history and culture of various ethnic groups, their traditions, lifestyles, views of the world and cultural achievements. It is a platform for meetings between people of different nationalities and religions, united by a common desire to sing and affirm the benefits and joys that creativity brings to the world.

reer?

VT: As for newcomers, it is important to recognize that creativity and learning go hand-in-hand. Continued study of the works of the great masters is essential but take care to avoid imitation. A creative person creates in his or her own path. A template kills creativity, so strive to be unique. Focus on developing a tight plot. Don’t chase after a sensational topic. The simple things in life are often the most meaningful.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

VT: It is now my intention to realize a long-harboured project to write a book exploring the critical role of spirituality in people’s lives and its importance in the existence and development of any society across the globe. It is a highly complex subject which will require reworking past material, conducting an in-depth analysis of the current situation in the spiritual sphere, and gathering hard data to support each conclusion.

My ultimate aim is to identify sources of negative phenomena in this sphere, name ways to stop them and determine the prospects for achieving the proposed changes. In this regard, I would like to suggest that the Guild holds a festival on the theme of ‘High Spirituality in Creativity”.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

VT: I would love to participate in such a project but in principle, am ready to support any project instigated by the Guild since the goals and objectives of the ECG meet my beliefs and interests.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their ca-

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LITERATURE Since 2015, I have been engaged in creativity: I write poems, stories and essays. In terms of higher education, I graduated from Samarkand State University.

My favorite pastime is reading books. My love of books has been passed on from my parents. They were book lovers.

We had a lot of books in the house. My parents have a phenomenal memory. My father was a teacher, he sometimes composed poetry. My mother was a saleswoman. She loved literature, and knew various folk songs by heart. My parents paid great attention to raising their children. There were six of us.

I was the fifth child in the family. As a child, I made friends with fairy-tale characters who are still with me to this very day, that is, I, like my parents, live in the world of books. They have long been separated from me but I still feel their love.

And I know that this love is infinite. It is they who inspire me, help everywhere and in everything. Thanks to my parents and books, I found my way in life, I found myself and my happiness...

ZULKHUMAR KENDZHAEVA Zulkhumar Khamdamovna from 1994 till 2015 she worked as a teacher, from 2015 she began writing poetry and essays. The theme of her work is the knowledge of the truth of life. For 5 years (2015-2020) she wrote more than 70,000 lines of poetry, more than 2,000 sheets of essays. Books are her most faithful friends, she can’t imagine her life without them. Zulkhumar Kenjaeva loves to study the life and work of great poets, writers and philosophers. She is especially into the works of the founder of the Uzbek literary language, Alisher Navoi, loves traveling to sacred places, before quarantine she visited more than 70 places in Uzbekistan with her family.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work ?

ZK: My name Zulkhumar. I was born on July 30, 1972 in the Kanimekh district of the Navoi region of the Republic of Uzbekistan. I have spent twenty one years working as a teacher.

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Main theme of my work is self-knowledge. In order to know myself, at the age of 40, I started traveling with my family in the sacred places of Uzbekistan. I have visited more than 70 locations.Traveling has helped me. In the 43rd year of my life, my sixth sense opened. I worked both day and night, incessantly, I could not stop. It was incredible. And I was surprised to myself, but over time I realized what I really am.

The real Zulkhumar was able to write 1000 lines of poems in a single day, or 30-40 sheets of essays, and filled out a general notebook in a week. For 9 months, I turned out about 30 thousand lines of poems. And the world opened the way to the truth for me. I realized that all truth is in man himself.

It turns out that everything is simple and clear ... ... Studying the life and work of great ancestors, I found the answer to all questions, i.e. the key to all the doors. Using it, you can solve absolutely all the problems of mankind, except death. And death means that our time is up, that it is time to return back to our home. In the meantime, we are alive, while visiting the planet “Earth”, we must use that time for the benefit of mankind, leaving their bright mark in this white light.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

“Eurasianism” is a mutual understanding, friendly cooperation between the West and the East in a single Earth Under the same Sky.

OCA: What are your favourite artists?

ZK: In childhood, I loved to listen and read fairy tales.

In my school years I read E.Vokhidova, A.Oripova, U. Khoshimova, H.Tukhtabaeva.

My favorite works at the university were the works of A. Pushkin, A. Chekhov, V. Hugo, Exupery, Shakespeare, Charlotte Bronte. At the moment I am reading the philosophy of ancient times (Aristotle, Socrates, Confucius, etc.) Sufi literature (Rumiy, Gazzoliy and others) as well modern literature.

I am interested in the philosophy of Hegel and Kant. In a word, I’m a book lover. Since childhood, my favorite poet has been Alisher Navoi. I admired him and do to this day. The works of A. Navoi are treasures not only of the East, but of everything of the world. But so far, mankind does not know the price of this wealth.

My whole life is connected with the name of this poet: I was born in the Navoi region, studied at school at the A. Navoi University. I currently live in the Navoi mahalla. And in a dream I see a great poet.Three years ago A. Navoi presented me with his pen, the book “Hamsa” (“Five”) and blessed me to call upon all mankind for kindness, to help people find the meaning of life. From this day on, my pseudonym is Kenzha Navoi. (Harbinger of Navoi).

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

ZK: Yes, I did. For the first time in Astana (Kazakhstan) and 5 times in Tashkent.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

ZK: For me, the Eurasian Creative Guild is a fabulous planet where dreams come true. Heroes do not survive, do not exist, but live and create. It is easy to communicate with such people without even knowing their language. We spiritually understand each other. Each participation in Guild events inspires me even more.

Many thanks to the Guilds for understanding, for their interest in my work. I have been looking for this planet for a long time, I think the Guild was also looking for me. And one fine day we found each other thanks to the Almighty. No wonder they say who seeks will always find.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

ZK: Yes, I have a personal project. But it is very widespread.

If this project is realized, then many people will know themselves and begin to live humanly. When people begin to live, then they will begin to think and think. When people think and think, then they will begin to understand and listen to each other. And when there will be mutual understanding between people, then families will not break up, children will not become orphans, and older people will not get into the nursing home. Then humanity will find its happiness. I believe and hope so.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

ZK: I did not participate in any projects. In the future I want to participate in various interesting projects that benefit humanity.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

ZK: I wish you all health, patience and love.They contain real happiness!

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ART Art College. I studied in the sculpture department, which predetermined my choice of profession as a sculptor. After graduating from college, I realized that I did not have enough skills in my profession. That’s why I have decided to improve my skills at the Belarusian State Academy of Arts. Later on, I came to BGAMT to work as a graphic designer. As a sculptor, I always had work to do in the studio. However, I realized that this wasn’t enough for me, and I began to combine work in the studio with teaching. In my free time, I work as a sculptor as well.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

AY: Everything starts with an idea, and sculpture in my hands is a way of expressing this idea. I think it’s not right to put ourselves in some kind of stylistic framework, and not to go beyond them, because only in art are we free. The last thing you think about is when you are ready to work and you analyze what style it belongs to. In most cases, I relate my work to Dadaism because I use the Redi-Maid technique. If the viewers understand your message, your idea, then everything has worked out.

ALEXANDER YUSHKEVICH Alexander is a sculptor, artist, and teacher. He has been working as an artist-sculptor. He gives preference to the social genre in sculpture. The sculptor is concerned about a person and his place in society, his values, his thoughts and deeds, his feelings and attitude to what is happening. He is the winner of the “ART SESSIO” Exhibition-Competition of Visual Arts for Art Students ”(Vitebsk, Republic of Belarus). His sculpture “Mother” was awarded the Grand Prix. Alexander is a scholar of the special fund of the President of the Republic of Belarus to support talented youth. In 2005, the young sculptor was awarded the Talents of Belarus medal.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity?

AY: My name is Alexander Yushkevich. I’m an artist, sculptor, teacher. I studied at an arts secondary school with a decorative and applied bias. After graduation I entered the Minsk

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OCA: What are your favourite artists?

AY: I cannot single out one, I admire everyone and always take inspiration. And again, my choice is determined by my own preferences. I admire ancient Greek sculptures, it is the Homeric period of small plastic works, the period of classics.

It is a series of sculptors such as Polyclet, Miron, Skopas, Praxiteles, Lysippos - I just love them. On my shelves, I have albums of my favourite artists, among them - Lucian Freud, Giacomo Manzu as well as Alexander Rukavishnikov.

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

AY: My favourite work is the sculpture “Mother”. This is an image of a mother sitting with a ball of thread in her hands.

The ball symbolizes the planet Earth and the thread is the path to the house. For a long time, the work stood on my shelf (since 2002) in plasticine, it has passed the test of time and in 2018 I remade it in bronze.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

AY: Yes, I was a member of the ‘Art in English’ project and ’Plein Air’ in London in 2018. Our collective exhibition “living and dreaming” includes a five based gallery which was held in London.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

AY: This is a geopolitical concept. For me, this is a cultural

bridge that did not exist before, it is an opportunity to communicate, speak and be heard. I thank the Eurasian Creative Guild for that opportunity.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

AY: In the future, I’m going to cast several works in bronze, among them will be a sketch of a park sculpture in a scale of 1:10.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

AY: If you have already chosen this path, then I would advise you to be patient. Do your favourite thing that gives you pleasure, improve your capabilities. Don’t chase popularity and money, first of all, think about where you are running, with whom you are running, where you need to go, maybe you can just walk there .

Be self-critical, ask yourself questions and find answers to them. The main thing is that you should love what you create, because if you like it, then someone else will like it too. Do everything for yourself, because it’s difficult to deceive yourself. Be ready for criticism: remember that any person perceives everything through his/her perspective.

Good luck!

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ART OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work AS: I was born in Kharkov, Ukraine in 1952, on March 30.

I started drawing at school. I always deeply loved to paint nature, sky, water ... Seriously, I started drawing after serving in the Army, I took painting courses. Since then my brush and paints have always stayed besides me.

I’m constantly engaged in wood carving, embossing, mosaic, but painting is always my passion. My dream of a lifetime was to create a home similar to the Tretyakov Gallery, so I began to copy the style of famous Russian artists: Shishkin, Savrasov, Kuindzhi, Repin, Shcherbakov and many others. Now in my collection there are more than 40 works. I was always fascinated by the mood of the work, penetrating into my soul, I feel like I’m in another world, that I live in it, breathe in it, smell the herbs, admire the dancing lights...

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

AS: I paint in the style of classical Russian painting. What influenced my choice was that I come from a simple family and often went to my grandmother in the village. In the mornings I drank fresh milk, went barefoot on warm land, I walked about, picking up mushrooms in the forest, and went fishing.

All these memories of childhood left a wonderful feeling, a love of nature and a simple way of life that will never be lost in my memory.

ALEXEY SIDORENKO Alexey was born in Ukraine. He started drawing at school. He loves to draw nature, sky, water ... He studied at the Kharkov cultural and educational school in the direction of folk instruments. In Kharkov, he worked in amateur music performances.

Seriously began to draw after serving in the Army, he took painting courses.

He was engaged in woodcarving, manufacturing of paid furniture, chasing, mosaics. Participated in competitions of painters of the Belgorod region, Kharkov. He decorated 2 schools, a dozen cafes, walls of his house, public transport stops in the Gayvoronsky district with his paintings, and restored the city’s monuments.

In Grayvoron he’s a member of the Graivoron folk pop brass band.

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OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

AS: Favorite Russian artists: Shishkin, Savrasov, Kuindzhi, Repin, Levitan, Shcherbakov. From Europe, I love Claude Monet and Van Gogh. The works of these artists are present in my “Home Tretyakov Gallery” OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

AS: My favorite work I would say is “the Moscow courtyard”

by Polenov. I see this artwork filled with the sun, the warmth of the house and gentle sadness. It contains the whole gamut of moods.Very homely painting.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

AS: Until recently , I did not participate in the activities of the Eurasian Creative Guild, but this is only because of a recent acquaintance with the activities of the Guild. I have a lot of great things planned ahead!

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

AS: “Eurasianism” for me are the open doors to the world

of European and Asian authors, acquaintance with new techniques, styles and directions of art OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

AS: For me the Eurasian Creative Guild is a new discovery, I understood that there is a force in the world aimed at uniting talented creative people, it’s wonderful, we are together, without borders.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

AS: I’m ready to participate in any projects, exhibitions and events. I want to please the audience with my paintings where I express my soul.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

AS: For beginner artists, I advise you to learn from great masters, not just Russians.

There are many artists from whom you can learn to know the beauty and grandeur of nature (I mean landscapes). Look at the world with wide eyes, love nature, be surprised, do not offend it and it will return you a hundred times back.

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

AS: I have a good attitude to any kind of art and not only in the countries of Eurasia. After all, painting, music, theater, cinema has no boundaries, art enters every house without visas and passports and lives in our hearts and souls. It makes us happy, sad, hurts us and inspires us.

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ART decided to go to university “where I could draw.” I finally decided to follow the path of creativity, especially when my painting teacher said, “Never give up painting.” Her words did not leave my mind and I think that they’ve really influenced my choice.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

AS: It’s difficult for me to put my works into any of the styles since among my works there are both close to realism and abstract, as well as those that I call experimental art.

However, since I became interested in studying the works of surrealist artists, my thoughts are concentrated in this direction. In short, what influences the formation of my style?

The answer will be: “those things, situations and experiences that are in my heart.”

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

AS: I like Jerome Bosch, his artwork is striking in its unreality.

The images that he created for me are absolute surrealism. I also love the work of Raoul Dufy for the lightness, brightness and simplicity with which the artist depicts the reality surrounding him. Since 2015, I was especially keen on Japanese culture and discovered Katsushika Hokusai. I was captivated by that inexplicable aesthetics, that subtlety, simplicity, and at the same time complexity, which can be seen in engravings

by Hokusai and ukiyo-e artists.

ALIYA SHEKHMAMETYEVA Alia Shekhmametieva was born in St. Petersburg. She graduated from the university with a degree in Environment Designer.

Before entering her specialty, she was in two minds about it for a long time, because her interest in creating was always very deep. Alia Shekhmametieva considers herself as an aspiring designer, artist and just a dreamer who loves to compose stories, poems, stories. She also loves to learn something new, because the knowledge of the world, and everything that surrounds us, nourishes her creativity.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity?

AS: I consider myself as an artist, a dreamer, a designer, and I write a little bit. It seems to me that these concepts are somehow interconnected. I’m thinking of creating my own painting style, and also continue to improve my artistic skills.

Also, I write poetry. My career began from the moment I

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OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

AS: In fact, I have several of them and it’s difficult to give preference to anyone. Therefore, I think that it’s worth highlighting those that I managed to see in real life. Among them: “The Last Day of Pompeii” - a picture painted by Karl Bryullov, now in the collection of the Russian Museum.

Another picture is “Sadko”, which was painted by Ilya Repin by order of Alexander III. When I first saw this artwork, I froze, amazed at the underwater world that Repin portrayed. And finally, “Sailboats in Trouville” by Raoul Dufy, this is the painting when my interest in Dufy’s work began.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

AS: Since I joined the Guild only last year, when I finally decided to take part in the Open Eurasia 2019 contest, as a writer with my short story and poem, so I could not attend many events, including Open Eurasian Literature Festival, which was held in Belgium.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

AS: For me, “Eurasianism” is a community of peoples who

have certain principles, ideas, values and ways of thinking that have formed in them within the framework of that culture, environment and geographical location, including the environment that formed entire groups no less than anything else.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creative activity?

AS: I first found out about the Eurasian Creative Guild in 2017 then I didn’t dare to take part in Open Eurasia - 2017. And last year, I finally decided to show my work at the competition. And the fact that one of the works (a short story) got to the finale inspired confidence in my abilities.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

AS: I plan to continue participating in the Open Eurasia contest, and also think about participating in such projects as the literary collection “Thread”, the Voices of Friends almanac and the “Top 25 works of Eurasian art” to prove myself not only as a writer, but also an artist.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

AS: Don’t be afraid of mistakes, as they inhibit all creative activity and do not allow you to move forward. Learn to accept constructive criticism, as this is something that will help develop your potential, although it can be difficult. And the last thing I want to wish is to enjoy what you are doing, put my thoughts and emotions into it, and finally look for inspiration even in small and simple things.

completely different from ours and the ability to look at what is happening on the other side; try to understand the people around you.

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

AS: Speaking generally about the art of the Eurasian countries is definitely interesting to me. Their way of thinking is

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ART signer. I’m from Uzbekistan and were brought up mainly by the older generation, as is customary in our culture.

In my vision of beauty and clothing style a huge influence had a national colouring. Because I sew for a wide range of people, in every clothes I sew, you can see the national style.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

FY: For me this is when you belong to the community between the Eurasian countries and more specifically, the community of people in these countries.

People have always strived for unity for existence and in the modern world this brings great results such as growth to the community and support.

OCA: What are your favorite artists?

FY: Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Rafael, Pushkin, Muhammad Yusuf, Valentino, Chanel, Alexander McQueen.

FIRUZA YAKUBOVA Firuza is a fashion designer. She was born in Tashkent. She graduated as a lawyer-economist, she has been doing art for five years. She has her own brand, which is beginning to be recognized, she is a member of many prestigious associations in several countries around the world. In Uzbekistan, he has the status of an honorary National Craftsman. Firuza Yakubova creates exclusive models and looks, from natural fabrics (cotton, silk, wool, leather).

OCA: Tell us please about yourself and your creative activity?

FY: My name is Yakubova Firuza and I’m already at the age when a woman celebrates her 30th anniversary every year, I hope readers will understand me. When I was 4 years old, I already was interested in sewing. My grandmother used to sew for me dresses, that curiosity led me to become a de-

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

FY: Unfortunately, no. When my participation was organized in 2019, I faced some problems in my field, which prevented me from taking part in the Festival.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity ?

FY: I can’t say exactly how the guild influenced my artwork because I’m still a beginner in this community.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

FY: Well, I have my own project. The main idea is to teach children sewing skills for free, to help children who have talent but no opportunity for self-realization.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

FY: I’m going to take part in the project “Open World international program” which focuses on training women

leaders, also competition dedicated to women entrepreneurs “Business women of Russia”. in the near future I plan to participate in the project “Pisa fashion days New York” as well as in Fashion For Future - EURASIAN FASHION WEEK. OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild who are just starting their career?

FY: Don’t be afraid of your ideas, don’t be afraid to ask for mentoring help from members of the Guild. Everyone is ready to help you!

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ART As a child who didn’t go to kindergarten I spent all my free time doing that. I liked to immerse myself into the world of my own fantasy. The reality was less attractive to me.

One day at school I received 1 (the lowest grade) for my drawing and my mother was called to school! “Your daughter gives us a drawing of an adult as if it is hers!” - the teacher said angrily while showing the drawing of Lenin to my mother. So, I had to draw it again on spot… This case made me not want to draw for quite a long time.

Only after graduating from school I continued my education preparatory courses at the Academy of Arts and at the private school of V. Karkunov. Then I graduated from the decorator’s studio, then the Academy of Arts.

OCA: What is your painting style? And what influenced your style?

LA: I work in different styles: realism, art deco, stylisation ... from textured images to softly blurred. I like to experiment and since I’m a sensitive person I’m influenced by many factors.

LARISA ALEKSEEVA When I’m asked to write a biography, it feels like it’s something finite. So, in short: “I’m living!”

In more detail, I graduated from the school of decorator, the University of Art, the Academy of Arts in Latvia, the RPI - Department of Psychology. I worked in the “ART” organization where I prepared exhibitions, in theatre as a painter-decorator, in the VEF design bureau, on television and radio.

My poster was first presented in Moscow. At that time, I received my first painting orders. Later, I participated in thematic exhibitions in Latvia and presented around 50 of my pieces of work. My artworks are included in the private collections in Germany and France where I also used to work.

OCA: Tell me about yourself and your creative work. How did your journey start?

LA: ‘A small girl biting her lip and tightly holding a pencil was always drawing’ - this is how my grandmother described me.

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OCA: Name your favourite artists.

LA:My life is like a movie: different periods are like separated frames associated with a specific name. I’m particularly interested in painting that opens new canons. These are Rublev, Velazquez, Caravaggio, Vrubel, Purvitis, Paulux and, of course, the Impressionists...

OCA: What is your favourite piece of art and why?

LA: A piece of art that fully reflects an idea can become close to me for some time. But the next one is likely to force out and to replace the previous one. So, my favourite piece is coming.

OCA: Have you ever taken part in the Eurasian Creative Guild events? For example, did you take part in our exhibitions in the CIS countries, in the Eurasian Culture Week in London or in the Open Eurasian Literature Festival in Belgium and other countries?

LA: No, I haven’t. I participated in various exhibitions in Latvia. More than 50 of my artworks have been presented at the thematic vernissages at different times. Speaking of geography, my works are included in private collections in Russia, Germany and France.

OCA: What does Eurasianism mean to you?

LA: First and foremost, it’s an integration of diverse cultural heritage which differ from each other in terms of views on

the world and opportunities.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean for you and how did it influence your creative activity?

LA: Every creative person needs some kind of wide platform through which he can tell the world: “This is me. This is how I see and feel at this moment...”. It’s really important to find such concentrated opportunities. Without them, you can only present your works ‘on a fence’.

in contrast, is a joy of colours and existence, warmth and magnificence of rampant. The central part sublimes ethnic impulses from different sides. Such diversity is breathtaking!

Search for your artistic language! Talk to the world in the artistic language! It’s ready to listen to you!

OCA: What projects do you plan to participate in the future?

LA: The plans are still ripening, the fruits are green and not so interesting yet.

OCA: What would you wish for people that have just started their journey in arts?

LA: A creative product will always be an object for contemplation, learning, inspiration and discussion...and much more. You need to be ready for the fact that your work cannot be interesting for the majority. But this is what prevents you from short existence. Go for it and make mistakes. This is incredibly exciting!

OCA: In general, what is your attitude towards painting in Eurasia?

LA: It’s a huge space of information and artistic diversity! Life is too short to learn about all this. But every scooped-up piece will influence your life and your product, no matter which field you work in.

Also, how wonderful are the polarities! The western art, I think, is more calm, transparent, with some kind of exquisite cooling harmony. Eastern,

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ART school. This all gave me a useful experience for my further studies at the architecture department where I learned the basics of a mixed painting technique of watercolor/gouache, ink, charcoal and graphics. I worked as a graphic designer; designer of sketches of women’s and men’s clothing.

But I took painting more seriously later as an adult when I was raising my 3 children. I mastered the oil / canvas technique by trial and error by myself. I took orders.

OCA: Do you have any personal projects that you would like to talk about?

LP: How I have more time to spend on creativity, realise all my ideas and to move forward. I plan to publish my illustrated series of poems. Currently, I am working on paintings for my personal exhibition which is scheduled for this autumn.

I have taken part in national and international exhibitions and plan air. I am also a member of the Union of Artists of Kyrgyzstan.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

LP: When I’m painting I don’t think about style. For me the most important thing is inspiration, theme and process. I like to work freely without putting a time pressure on myself.

LARISA PAK Larisa Konstantinovna born on the 12th of September 1966 in the south-east of Ukraine. Since 1980 have been living in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Mother of 3 children.

Have ancestors from Korea and Japan.

A free painter and poet.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

LP: I was born and raised in the south-west of Ukraine.

I was a very active child: I was involved in dancing, sports, but drawing and poetry occupied a special part in my life.

In my childhood I was also fond of fashion design. I started drawing at the age of 6 and started writing poems when I was a teenager. In 1980 I moved from Ukraine to Kyrgyzstan, Frunze city, but after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the city changed its name to Bishkek.

During my studies at school I was also involved in designing visual teaching aids, stands and various wall newspapers in my

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Painting masters refer to my style as classical realism and academic painting. I live in a beautiful and mountainous country. Kyrgyzstan has stunning, virgin nature, high TienShan mountains, fields and forests full of flowers and various plants. There are numerous mountain rivers and freshwater lakes, such as Deep Issyk-Kul Lake with blue and cool water and sandy shores. I love living in nature, flowers, different shades of green and this influenced the genre and theme of my creative work. My works represent floristry and landscapes, but sometimes I experiment with other styles.

My whole creative work is based on kind and positive spirit and love towards everything that surrounds me.Through my paintings I try to express all my feelings and perceptions through vibrant and delicate tints, to express shapes, beauty and magnificence. I want the viewers of my paintings to feel joy, good mood, ease, happiness, a feeling of celebration and to forget all the problems. Regarding poetry, the topics are mixing with each other and emerge during the life process.

My poems reflect my feelings, worries and thoughts. They also touch events from my life or the lives of my friends.

They all are real, and when readers find themselves in my poems and recall certain moments, worry or feel happy, feel support, sympathy and compassion - this all is very precious for me.

OCA: What are your favourite artists?

LP: Among my favourite artists in painting are artists of different eras: William-Adolphe Bouguereau, Gustav Klimt, Van Gogh, Isaac Levitan, Arkhip Kuindzhi, Rene Megritt, Salvador Dali, Picasso and many Italian, French and Dutch masters.

In poetry, I love the works of William Shakespeare, Vladimir Vysotsky, Anna Akhmatova, Boris Ryzhy, Sergei Yesenin, etc.

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

LP: One of my favorite paintings is “Night”. The theme and presentation of this painting is very close to me because I often work at night, when every flower, every detail in the darkness are like bright glares manifest their mood and mission.

Among poems, I like “How important is love for you” and “I’ll wrap myself in a soft plaid”. Their theme is very important to me because it’s related to my personal life. 13 years ago, I suffered the initial stage of oncology and my ex-husband became frightened after learning about the diagnosis and betrayed me… Now I’m healthy, my children are around me and I’m happy that I’m living and believing in real love.

man Marat Akhmejanov and his team for the opportunity to participate in international projects and contests, to widen the society of talented people, to present myself as an artist and poet, to show my works abroad and to tell people about Kyrgyzstan as a country. The Guild gave a stimulus to accelerate and realise my creative projects and plans and to enter another level.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

LP: I sincerely wish everyone to complete their journey without stopping, to overcome all stages no matter how hard it is, not to give up and of course to achieve desired results! Take care and good luck!

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

LP: I have a very positive attitude towards art in Eurasian countries and I think that a human should always explore works of other artists, keep moving forward, learning and mastering his own skills.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

LP: I actively participated in all Eurasian Culture Week exhibitions in London, Brussels, Paris and CIS countries and in Open Eurasian Literature Festival in Belgium. I’m also a finalist of the short-list of the 8th International contest Open Eurasian Literature Festival in Brussels in 2019 in the category of Poetry. My painting is included in the collection of Kyrgyz Embassy in Brussels. I am going to participate in the upcoming event for the painters of the ECG London called “Top 25 artworks of Eurasia 2020” and I also want to participate in other projects and contests.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

LP: For me, “Eurasianism” is first and foremost a union of creative people from different countries, of goals of like-minded people, cooperation and striving for the development in creativity.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

LP: I thank the Eurasian Creative Guild, its chair-

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ART OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

MN: I work in the genre of landscape painting and with the most difficult technique - watercolor painting. During my studies at the Almaty Arts College named after Gogol, I visited exhibitions of such famous and well-known artists as Abylkhan Kasteev, Uke Azhiev and Boris Pak. OCA: What are your favourite artists?

MN: I think those artists (mentioned above) are my most favourite artists. And of course my teachers Kriushin Petr Mikhailovich and Golovkin Grigoriy Aleksandrovich who gave me huge knowledge and love towards art.

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

MN: I like the illustrations of Boris Pak for Hans Christian Andersen’a books.

MARLAN NYSANBAEV Marlan - graphic artist, painter, art-manager.

Ambassador of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London). On the 12 of November 2019 I became a member of the Union of Artists of Kazakhstan and now I’m a professional painter.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your activity / work?

MN: I was born in 1957. A member of the Union of Artists of Kazakhstan, ambassador of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London), Chairman of the Board of Fine Arts of the Guild.

I’m a freelance artist, I work creatively, organise plein airs and exhibitions. I’m also an art-manager and a manager of the ‘Art without borders’ project.

My creative work started in 1983 since my first youth exhibition.

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OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

MN: The very first event of the Eurasian Creative Guild that I organised and participated in were exhibitions for the anniversary of Chingiz Aitmatov at the State Museum named after Gappar Aitiev in 2018 Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Then, there was an exhibition in Astana dedicated to Aitmat readings together with S.A. Ismailov, where I became the winner of the Aitmat Readings Award. The next exhibition that I organised was in London as a part of a film festival organised by the Eurasian Creative Guild, where we applied printing technique. In London, I received technical support from Gulzada Hamra and Gulnara Mambetsadykova. Without them it would be very difficult. The last exhibition I organised together with Ismailov Shavkat Abdullaevich in The House of Friendship of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan in the city of Nur-Sultan.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

MN: For me Eurasianism is a unity of like-minded and creative people in this space.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how did it affect your creativity / activity?

MN: I joined the Eurasian Creative Guild in 2018 after my first plein air organised jointly with Nazir Jenishbekova on the southern coast of Issyk-Kul in Bishkek. The Guild helped me to organise and host the plein air, and later it also helped me with exhibitions in the central hall of the museum named after A. Kasteev. And this is how I started my activity in the Eurasian Creative Guild where I gathered almost 50 artists.

ECG Art Expert Council chairman During these 2 years as a member of the guild I organised 6 exhibitions, including international exhibitions and abroad.

I want to participate in and to help the Eurasian Creative Guild to organise the exhibitions of 25 Best painters of Eurasia and their other projects.

OCA: What would you advise the members of the Guild, who’re just starting their career?

MN: To newcomers of the guild I want to wish to be active participants in all projects of the guild, so that their names will be known not only in Kazakhstan but also abroad.

I have a positive attitude towards painting art in Eurasia. Realism Art school is still very strong, there are many talented and creative artists, and joint exhibitions give us a useful exchange of creativity and new painting techniques.

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ART I am also a writer of short, aphoristic, thought -provoking literary works, and a poet who strives to harmonize words with contemporary concepts.

I began writing and painting because I believe that creative culture is the most interesting and visual means of expressing what is happening in the world, and because it has the clearest, most sincere and intelligible appeal for both my contemporaries and descendants.

Creative culture allows me to speak about our environment in more depth and more truthfully, than anything the world can tell us about itself. To me, Art provides a space in which I can find like-minded people and develop my potential.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

NU: I am currently painting in my three unique styles. Aurosymbolism allows me to transfer my positive mood and desire to live a better life, through symbols relating to real things (trees, grass, sky, water, space, etc.). Such paintings are reflections of my ideas and their interactivity is expressed in their titles. As its name suggests, Abstract Aurosymbolism, employs abstract symbols to a similar end. Abstract Portraiture was created as a result of my working on theories of abstraction in the above.

NIKOLAI UDALTSOV Nikolai Udaltsov was born in Russia. He’s a paint artist, author.

He created several new directions in painting - auro-symbolism (symbolism for the soul), abstract auro-symbolism, abstract portrait. He wrote five books, trying to create the best books written in Russia in the section “Contemporary prose”. He’s the author of the series of paintings “XX century: Russia!

Russia? Russia ... ”and books under the same name - entered the“ Russian Book of Records ”.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work?

NU: I am a painter included in the Book of Records of Russia as author of the painting series ‘XX century: Russia! Russia? Russia…’, and founder of three new art movements: Aurosymbolism (symbolism for the soul), Abstract Aurosymbolism, and Abstract Portraiture.

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These three movements were created following my realization that modern painting, having shifted from realism and gone through a range of avant -garde movements, had ended up in a state which offered me the potential for further development; a notion compounded by visits to modern art galleries in Europe, Asia and North Africa.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

NU: I have great admiration for the “Peredvizhniki” artists as well as avant- garde art of the past century. I am particularly interested in Kazimir Malevich and the concepts expressed in “Black Square”, which I have managed to develop further.

Their influence on my own painting is however, based solely on how I experience their artwork and nothing else.

In literature, I see myself competing against esteemed authors Jack London, Erich Maria Remarque, Kurt Vonnegut and Ernest Miller Hemingway, in my endeavours to write about the current era as wisely and engagingly as they wrote about theirs.

OCA: Do you have any personal project that you would like to talk about?

NU: I am sincerely happy with almost all of the work I produce, whether in art or literature which I approach quite differently.I love my paintings because they allow me to convey things that both I and other people strive to attain. In my paintings, I can merge my dreams with reality…

I love my books because they allow me to express the roles of both a nation’s conscience and that of the oracle in literature and thus, help people to choose their life’s path. They also enable me to portray literary heroes for our times, for readers to emulate.

The book of which I am proudest, my most treasured “child”, is undoubtedly ‘XX Century: Russia! Russia? Russia…”; it is a unique and historical piece of art which has no analogues in the world.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

NU: For me, as someone who has visited many countries in Europe and Asia and experienced their diverse and interesting traditions and lifestyles, “Eurasianism” is a mutual enrichment of different regions afforded by cultural events throughout Eurasia.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

NU: I became a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild quite recently, so have yet to participate in many of the events on offer. However, I have submitted my novel ‘Poetess’, to this year’s Open Asia contest. Being a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild is an important creative stimulus to the way I work today and in the future! It is therefore my intention to participate in all Guild events in the areas of painting, literature and poetry, for as long as I am financially able to do so…

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

NU: I would recommend to anyone embarking on a creative path, to comprehensively explore and glean as much knowledge as possible about the current situation of their chosen field. Only then, will they be in a position to consider what fresh ideas they can offer to both their contemporaries and descendants through their chosen mediums.

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ART acterised as graceful paintings on silk, which are woven into various patterns, shapes and interesting works.

As a child, I enjoyed watercolour painting. In my school, I created posters, so called wall-newspapers, with colourful and artistic collages. After I finished my 8th grade, on the 14th of May 1999 I participated in a municipal contest “the world through the eyes of a child” where I presented my abstract black and white drawings and took second place. My works were exhibited throughout the whole summer. And this is how my journey started…

OCA: What is your painting style? And what influenced your style?

OSH: I use the decorative and applied style and the batik technique. I think every person has a need to create something hand-made.

Batik, I would say, is my childhood dream. Actually, I’ve been passionate about painting since my childhood as I’ve already mentioned. One day I saw clothes painted with batik and discovered this style and form of art.And when I learnt more about this type of painting in my university, I realised that it is close to me.

OLESYA SHIBAEVA Olesya is engaged in painting - design of residential interiors. Creation of paintings on various subjects (Batik). Painting of shawls, scarves, decorative pillows. She participates in collective exhibitions. She’s taking part in various exhibitions abroad, her works are in private collections in different cities (Russia, USA, Canada, Germany, London Paris, Israel and many others). Olesya Shibaeva is the winner of many competitions related to painting art.

OCA: Tell me about yourself and your creative work. How did your journey start?

OSH: Since I was raised in the family of artists, I’ve been absorbing the atmosphere of arts since my childhood. Inhaling the smell of the paints, paper and canvas, reading art books and observing my mom’s working process, I couldn’t resist from drawing. I graduated from the arts school, and my undergraduate and postgraduate studies were also related to arts and crafts (batik, painting on fabric and clothes). My creative specialisation is decorative and applied arts char-

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OCA: Name your favourite artists?

OSH: Gustav Klimt, Alfons Mucha, Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse. It’s hard to pick immediately, I like a lot of artists. Also, different artists appear and inspire us at different stages of life.

OCA: What is your favourite piece of art and why?

OSH: One of my favourite books is “Gone with the wind”

by Mitchell which tells about anxieties, difficulties and poverty, destroyed hopes, life in luxury and unrequited love, relationships and the real truth of life. I think this is still relevant today.

OCA: Have you ever taken part in the Eurasian Creative Guild events? For example, did you take part in our exhibitions in the CIS countries, in the Eurasian Culture Week in London or in the Open Eurasian Literature Festival in Belgium and other countries?

OSH: Yes, I took part in the exhibition in Romford, London in 2019 and in creative meetings in Moscow and Kishinev.

OCA: What does Eurasianism mean for you?

OSH: I only have positive associations with it. The most important is that people, whether they are professionals or amateurs, communicate with each other and share their experiences.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean for you and how did it influence your creative activity?

OSH: Lyudmila Dukbovetskaya introduced it to me. She is a poet and she was participating in the contest and suggested that I join it as a painter. This is how we started our communication, and then I met Mark… and gradually became a part of the group.

OCA: What projects or exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

OSH: If possible, I want to participate in all the art projects.

OCA: What would you wish for people that have just started their journey in arts?

OSH: I want to wish them to love, to be themselves, to be creative, to realise

projects and ideas that would create new artworks. Writer, poet, painter, photographer, journalist, teacher, sculpture, architect… I cannot even name all the creative professions. Who wants to create - simply create…

Just start and remember that there are no bad pieces of work, they can be unfinished. Nowadays, there are so many different materials for arts, so don’t be afraid! Good luck and be patient…

OCA: In general, what is your attitude towards arts in Eurasia?

OSH: Very positive. People approach everything with creativity and develop their talents, and everyone can find their own customer…

photos by denisovphotography.com

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ART painting, and when I faced a choice for my career path, I chose art without any doubts. Later on, I also mastered knitting, sewing and modeling.

After graduating from school, I entered the Art and Graphic Department of Kazakh National Pedagogical University named after Abay in Almaty. Upon graduation, I worked for several years and then decided to learn tapestry and batik, so I decided to study again and entered the Kazakh National Academy of Arts. Zhurgenev. During my studies, I was offered to move to Moscow where I finished the Department of Applied Arts at the Russian State University named after Kosygin. At that time, I immersed myself into the cultural life of the capital-city. We actively visited theatres and museums.

We eagerly absorbed the cultural trends of that time.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

YP: After I returned to my hometown Almaty, I was working with batik for quite a long time. Currently, I’m painting on canvas using oil painting technique. I want to convey and share my feelings and thoughts through my artworks. I like to create my own compositions. At different times I was interested in different topics: human and society, the eternal theme of love, mythology, history, music.

PERIZAT YESNAZAROVA

It’s hard to define my own style because I’m always searching for it. Perhaps I’d consider it as romantic symbolism, avante garde, modern. I think my studies in Moscow determined my work in arts. In Moscow I learnt graphics, batik, decorative painting, and there were many creative searches, experiments, which helped me to find my style and inspired me to work further.

Perizat Seidinovna was born in Otrar village of South-Kazakhstan region, on August 25, 1959. She graduated from the Art and graphics faculty, Abai Kazakh Pedagogical Institute, Almaty.

She has taken in international and republican art exhibitions.

A member of the Artists Union of Kazakhstan, she graduated «Russian Art Week», prize winner «Golden medal» at the exhibition «New York Realism». Technique - painting, batik. Her works are in private collections in Kazakhstan, USA, Holland, Turkey, Israel, Japan, India. At the moment she lives and works in Almaty city, Kazakhstan.

The years I spent studying at the Department of Applied Arts in Moscow were the happiest years.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work YP: As a child, I was trying to understand not only the environment, but also how the world is shaped. I wanted to convey my imagination through paper. I was passionate about

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

YP: It’s really hard to choose the most favourite one among my paintings. During the creation process, your thoughts are focused within a specific topic, but after some time you find

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OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

YP: Among artists I really admire impressionist painters, avant-garde artists, Japanese art. But the most spiritually close to me are Matisse, Miro and. Klimt. I believe that arts and paintings in particular should bring positive emotions. Of course, everything has rights to exist, but I think that beauty is something that makes us alive, inspires us and enriches the world.

an inspiration in another idea and immerse yourself into a different area. Every piece of my work is like my child, and I cannot highlight one of them, each one is precious. Of course, after some time I find things that I want to revise and would have done differently. Every period of my creative work was beloved and interesting in its own way. Presently, I really enjoy working on my series of paintings on music.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

YP: I got really interested in the activity of the Eurasian Creative Guild, in its active lifestyle, unification of creative people of different professions, various festivals and exhibitions it organises and scale and diversity of their programmes. I became a member of the guild quite recently - at the end of last year, so I didn’t have a chance to participate in many events.

But the group exhibition called ‘Watercolour fresh’, which has been postponed due the situation in the world, is coming soon.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

YP: For me, Eurasianism is a friendship and cooperation between countries and people, culture and business representatives, who work towards common goals and their creativity through meeting and collaborating. Every ethnic group is distinct and rich in its history, arts and culture. And acquaintance and joint projects enrich the spiritual life of a society. The Eurasian Creative Guild is a wonderful idea that unites professionals from every corner of Eurasia.

and sculptors who inspire each other for new achievements.

Every new project gives a motive for self-development and meeting with even more of the interesting personalities, it gives an opportunity to share our artworks.

OCA: What projects have you participated in and in which do you plan to participate?

YP: In the future I want to participate in contests, festivals, presentations, creative meetings, painting exhibitions and international projects.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

YP: I want to wish those who just begin their journey to dream and not to be afraid of releasing their dreams. Create and make your art real in your sphere. Find a response in people’s hearts and their support, because art is a co-creation of an artist and a viewer.

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

YP: I find the arts in Eurasian countries as well as the arts of all the ethnicities in the world really interesting. Ethnic groups bring together the universal values, norms and concepts, but the uniqueness and inimitability of each culture brings a new colour to art through the prism of individual perception of the world. And this is wonderful!

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

YP: For me the Eurasian Creative Guild is a union of creative people representing various spheres of cultural activity: writers, musicians, dancers, graphic designers, poets, illustrators

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ART city of Ust-Kamenogorsk. I was the third and last child in the family. From early childhood I liked to draw. It was my favorite time to spend, but my childhood passion was not a promise for the acquisition of the art profession. I graduated from medical school and became a doctor. Many years later, I returned to the artistic path.This activity took all my free time.

I decided to become a professional artist and entered the Almaty College of Decorative and Applied Arts named after O. Tansykbaev. I continued to improve myself as an artist in the workshops of artists of Kazakhstan, Russia and Ukraine.

Since joining the Eurasian Creative Guild, I have been an active participant in exhibitions. I was lucky to participate in many international art exhibitions held in different cities of the world, such as Almaty, Nur-Sultan, London, Paris.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

YF: I use different techniques and I’m in search of my own style, exploring different directions. My favorite in my work is the theme of the mountain landscape. Having been in the mountains, I was lucky to experience first hand the splendour of mountain nature. Indescribable landscapes of the evening and night sky on the peaks... it seems like you can touch the stars with your hand! I was lucky to observe the beauty and diversity of the scenic view in the mountains of Russia, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Morocco. These unforgettable views that nourished in my mountain paintings.

ELENA FURSA Elena was born in Kazakhstan. She is an artist, manager, by education she graduated as a doctor and now she’s working in a pharmaceutical company as international manager. She has always loved to draw, since childhood.Today drawing is an important occupation for her. She continues to study, finishing a painting course in Almaty. Thanks to the Eurasian Creative Guild, her creative activity began, and she participated in many exhibitions, including international ones. At the canvas, she forgets about time, she wants to paint, trying different techniques.

Elena Fursa loves to paint nature - mountains, sea, sky, still lifes.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/ work?

YF: I currently live in Almaty. It is a beautiful modern city with breathtaking nature and wonderful people. It is one of the major cities in Central Asia.

I was born in Kazakhstan, in the east of the country near the

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I always enjoy the seascape. The sea is also my passion and a favorite thing to draw. I like the richness of the colour palette of water, it is very exciting to paint the sea on the canvas.

The combination of objects, colours organizes the space of a still life and the action begins when the picture lives in new images and a story is created. This is very exciting for me.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

YF: I am fascinated by the creativity of many people in different directions in art. I admire the ability to transmit light, the combination of colour among the impressionists, the detail and compositional solution of the old masters, the combination of techniques in the areas of modern art. I adore the work of Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Nicholas Roerich and many other artists.

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

YF: I like a lot of artwork. But if I have to choose one, I’m rather delighted with the engraving of the German artist Albrecht Dürer, his mysterious work “Melancholy”. This painting is a mystery and it can be studied endlessly. In this engraving I see the perfection of the execution of the graphic

drawing, the variety of symbols and allegories, the combination of various objects in the artwork. It attracts the unknown and incomprehensible, therefore the work enchants and makes you ponder.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

YF: I was lucky enough to participate in several events organized by the Guild: Eurasian Culture Week in London, Open Eurasian Literature Festival. Also in exhibitions organized jointly with the Eurasian Creative Guild in France and Kazakhstan.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

YF: For me,“Eurasianism” is a concept aimed at getting deep knowledge in terms of European and Asian cultures. I see many positive points in this. For us, living in Asia, the culture of our land is understandable, but the western one is also familiar. We learn from the masters of the European school and the culture of the East. For me, as an artist, Eurasianism is an expansion of the vision of approaches, methods of writing/painting works, the game of a colourful palette. All this can give a promise for creating interesting new works.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

YF: The Eurasian Creative Guild means a lot to me. Joining the Eurasian Creative Guild has radically changed my life. I can say that the new time for creativity has started. Active exhibition has begun as well as friendships with many great artists. This gave a creative opportunity for working on my paintings, finding my own style.

give me strength to create interesting paintings.

I think this is my new success story.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

YF: I wish more people on our planet find their path! I wish as many people as possible have revealed their creative potential and use it to create wonderful works!

For the beginners, I would like to share some tips: -Listen to your heart, believe in yourself, in your success!

-Start new projects easily, change your life for the better at any age!

-Use the opportunities that the Universe gives you !!

-Love the world! Create beautiful things!

-Join the Eurasian Creative Guild!

I wish all people to be happy, to bring joy and love to the world!

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

YF: I have a very positive attitude towards the art in the countries of Eurasia. There are many talented artists who convey their vision of events on canvases, reflecting their external and internal world.

In general, art enriches the world and makes it better.

I am immensely grateful to Marat Akhmedzhanov for the idea of creating ​​ such a union and the active promotion of Eurasian culture. I sincerely wish the Guild further prosperity.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

YF: 2020 was expected to be very active, several exhibition events were planned. At the beginning of the year, together with Kazakhstani artists, I managed to participate in an exhibition dedicated to the 175th anniversary of the great Abay Kunanbayev.The exhibition was held in a wonderful museum of the Nevzorov family in Semey city, East Kazakhstan region.

Coronovirus have made changes to this year’s plans. But I continue to look optimistically into the future and believe that many interesting and promising projects are ahead. I am happy that God opened the doors to art for me. I ask that he

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ART OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

GH: The style of my work is very dry. I start by putting wool from various colors onto a thin material, creating a plot, closing it with glass and inserting it into its frame. These paintings live forever. I draw my paintings under the impression of what I saw on the Internet or in nature. I have paintings that, with the consent of the artists, I copied based on their acrylic paintings, using the wool painting technique. I am very interested in comparing these completely different drawing techniques. Another thing to note: drawing with wool is impossible to replicate.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

GH: I think that most artists I love are people who are connected by philosophy. I think philosophy is connected with the way of life and is what brings various ideas together. To put it simply: philosophy is multifaceted. I am interested in the works of Plato, Aristotle, Alisher Navoi, Al Farabi, Ibn Sina and many modern philosophers.

GULZADA HAMRA Gulzada was born in Kyrgyzstan in the village of Bosteri. She’s currently based in London. She has been engaged in the creative arts of wool drawing and felting since 2016. She’s a member of the Eurasian Creative Guild in London. She speaks English, Russian, Kyrgyz, Kazakh and Persian (Dari).

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work GH: I never knew how to draw and still don’t really know how to. But wool is a magic tool for those who know how to work with it.The soft coats that I work with soothe and help me to calm myself down. Things that are made from them are fascinating.With wool you can create anything. After all, I come from a people that believe that life is connected with things made of wool. things such as carpets, clothes and accessories. The men from my village have always prepared a dowry of woolen gifts for their girls.

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OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

GH: Theodore Dreiser’s Writer American Tragedy. I remember reading this thick book in just a week, despite my busy days at school and as being the eldest in the family. In terms of recent works, I suppose the work of the Scottish writer, a member of the Guild, Kyrgyz-British writer Shahsanem Murray’s, “Cold Shadows” has me intrigued. It is a great, fascinating piece of work. The author always keeps things in suspense, with riddles and stories intertwined with the 2nd Patriotic War and the modern world.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

GH: I took part in almost every event of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London). I participated in Eurasian Culture Week exhibitions in London 2018, 2019. I was one of the organizers of the project “Peaks of Asia”. The project involved artists from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, France and Moldova. My paintings were exhibited in the CIS countries, in London, in Scotland in France, in Turkey, in Belgium.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

GH: Eurasianism for me is when you expand my acquaintances of creative people to many countries. You share your plans and learn new things. It’s a great opportunity to show your creativity in different ways and cultures.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

GH: The Eurasian Guild promotes my artwork, and inspires me to go forward, create new paintings and expand my work with wool, both dry and wet felting.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

GH: I will try to participate in all guild projects related to the work of applied art.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

GH: My wishes for those who are starting their journey in

creativity are not new. I will just repeat the old one: have patience and you’ll achieve your goal. And if you love your job, and will tirelessly work on it, then recognition and success will certainly come.

OCA: How do you generally feel about art in the countries of Eurasia?

GH: I consider art in the countries of Eurasia to have a deep intellectual diversity, very rich in artistic tradition.

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ART My creativity is very emotional, bright, bringing positive vibes to the world. During my career in arts, I’ve participated in many personal and collective exhibitions in my country and abroad, my works have been bought from other countries and into private collections.

I am also a founder and owner of an Art-Orehova studio called “Seven colours of happiness” for both children and adults, which opened in 2012 and since that time has been successfully developing.

It was my dream to create a studio with vibes of love towards creativity and arts. I painted a lot myself and I really wanted everyone to realise how wonderful it is.

The studio was created for everyone who wants to open up their talents in oil painting, water-colour painting, drawing basics and other disciplines in painting and applied arts.

I become really happy when I realise that 1000 paintings have been created in my studio and that they decorate a lot of homes in my country and abroad. Everytime I observe someone painting in my studio, I feel like roses are blooming in my heart. And I can say that I’m proud of my students.

INGA OREHOVA Inga Orehova I was born and raised in the city of Chisinau (Moldova), graduated from the Faculty of Decorative Applied Arts at the State Pedagogical University named after Ion Creanga. She graduated from a master’s degree in fine arts pedagogy. And a master in psychology and art therapy. Participant and organizer of art exhibitions for children and adults.

She uses oil painting and her own a variety of techniques and types of fine art. Inga is the creator of a painting and drawing studio for children and adults. Manager, organizer and developer of programs at ArtOrekhova studio “Seven Flowers of Happiness”.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work?

IO: I have been loving arts and aesthetics since forever. I got my first higher education in the 1990s as a teacher of fine arts. My second higher education is related to psychology and art-therapy.

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OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

IO: The technique I work with is oil painting. Of course I mastered various techniques and skills, but oil painting is my love because I think art is a dialog between a painter and an artwork and oil is a great material, it’s very flexible and dynamic.

I paint landscapes, still life, portraits and of course flowers. I like impressionism most of all.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

IO: My priceless teachers are Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Dürer, Claude Monet,Van Gogh, Marc Chagall, Gustave Klimt and many other painters because each artist has something we can learn from. I also highly appreciate trips in which I as an artist can get inspiration in new places, museums and art galleries. Discovering arts of great and relatively contemporary artists, we always can bring something new and beautiful to our artworks.

OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

IO: I have a small painting of Angels which I drew for my daughters and it’s my favourite one, it has love, gentleness and happiness. Every painting is a whole story in which the

author conveys its view on the world, moment and time to the audience.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

IO: I’m a very new member of the guild, however, I’ve already been touched by your love towards your activity and I hope to participate in your projects soon.

We organised a warm welcoming meeting for the founder of the Eurasian Creative Guild Marat Akhmejanov in my studio and în Centrul Academic International Eminescu in Chisinau. My impression of him was the most wonderful. He is an incredibly warm-hearted and hard-working person who is ready to support creative people, to preserve distinct arts of different countries, to help people to meet each other and to promote their creative activity.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

IO: For me it is a unification of Western and Eastern cultures, preservation of heritage and friendship between nations, discovery and understanding of the roots of our civilization in general. It’s a synthesis of science, music, poetry and painting, friendly interactions and mutual respect.

“Justice, Happiness, Reason and Wisdom constitute life guidelines in the spiritual and moral perfection of a human being”.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

IO: It’s important for me to be a part of a big family, to participate in various creative events, to meet like-minded people and to talk about my art. Your bright and wonderful people inspire to strive for new achievements and creative discoveries. Thanks to you, I came across the artworks of various artists from all over the world as well as from my country and my hometown. These people are amazing and beautiful.

Festivals, meetings and contests give a fantastic opportunity to realise my dreams. Wonderful books that you publish are the greatest heritage for our children, for many generations. I sincerely wish you all the good, peace and prosperity, be true to your idea and your good deed. The mission that you’re striving for will give a lot of good and useful results.

motto is “to give people joy, to help them to realise their dreams by revealing their potential and charging their life with happiness and joy through immersing into the world of art and creativity, in order for them to increase this joy further”.

This year I plan to organise several exhibitions in Chisinau and abroad and make several personal exhibitions as well as a collective exhibition of my students and colleagues. I have been invited to several open-air exhibitions abroad. But there is one issue: I am a mother of 3 children, my daughters are 6 and 1 years old, so it’s really hard for me to travel abroad at this time. However, we have a plan to make a virtual exhibition. Moreover, I really want to participate in the “Top-25 Best Painters of Eurasia-2020. This is my goal for this year.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

IO: I want to wish people who have just started their journey in the arts to believe in themselves, to believe that they are unique and there is no artist or person like you. Travel and get inspired, visit galleries and museums, read books about great painters, watch movies - you should get used to arts and creativity. Also, dream. This is very important because dreams definitely come true.

Learn, find yourself teachers who will help you to find a special creative state of mind and share with you love towards arts. And of course, you should draw a lot. Professionalism is 10000 hours of mastering one skill. And finally, share your talent with other people, meet new people, participate in exhibitions and inspire others for creativity.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

IO: During my career I have organised many exhibitions and vernissages for students, teachers and artists of our studio.

These are very bright and memorable experiences especially for people who just start their journey in arts. Our main

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ART thing over. At that time I felt like an avalanche gushed on me.

I was writing during the day and night, whenever I had time.

I was writing fairy-tales and drew illustrations to them using water-colour or photoshop. Nowadays, I create books fully myself: from a cover to content.

OCA: What style do you paint in? What influenced your style?

LB: Currently I’m living in Krasnodarskiy Krai (Russia), so I want to capture Succulent colors of forests, meadows, sea coast, plants, animals and insects on my canvas. I enjoy the beauty of the environment and I want to convey this feeling to a viewer. My painting style was influenced by the paintings of the following artists: Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Van Gogh, Marie Braquemon, Lubomir Kolarov, Joseph Cote, Laurent Parsellier, Hilary Eddie.

Through my abstract impressionism paintings I try to convey such emotions and mood that would make their viewers want to live and breathe deeply.

OCA: Who are your favorite artists?

LB: Writer Albert Likhanov (Russia), literary critic Olga Bugoslavskaya (Russia), cellist Stjepan Hauser (Croatia), composer and musician Didier Marouani (France), composer Ennio Moriccone, painters Nikas Safronov (Russia) and Semen Lukansi (Russia).

LUDMILA BLOKHINA Ludmila Blokhina was born in Russia. She’s a writer, poet, illustrator. She writes fairy tales, poems and stories for children and illustrates them. Currently she’s illustrating books: from covers to content. She also paints with acrylics, watercolors, pencils and on a computer using Adobe Photoshop. My e-books for children are available at the worldwide libraries as well as online stores Amazon and Smashwords (www. smashwords.com/ profile/view/Ludmira). You can learn more about my creations at the luchisolka.com.

OCA: Tell us about yourself and your creative activity/work LB: I was raised in a beautiful region of Primorsky Krai (Russia). I saw untouched nature. In my childhood I was good at drawing and writing poems. It was my hobby, I didn’t treat it too seriously. Upon graduating from university, I started my postgraduate studies. I hoped to dedicate my life to science.

But things went differently. In 2008, my family faced a situation that completely changed my life. I had to start every-

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OCA: What is your favorite piece of art and why?

LB: It’s a book called “The Life of David Copperfield, Told by Himself” written by Charles Dickens. The novel reflects the development of personality and dependence of its formation on the education system, society and its rules. Despite difficulties in life, the main character believes in good and preserves human dignity.

My generation, raised in socialistic conditions naively thinking everything is achievable as long as you are educated and talented and that the government will help you to reach your goals, will protect you from arbitrariness of officials, crime, will treat you, will provide you with accommodation and employment, is now in a situation where everyone is responsible for oneself. It’s very hard to realise that in the conditions of capitalistic society you are merely a screw in the mechanism of a monopolistic machine. Just like David, we observe this world as if we are children while trying to preserve our personalities and not to dissolve in a stream of gray mass.

OCA: Have you taken part in the events of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)?

LB: I took part in the Open Eurasian Literature Festival and Book Forum in Brussels (Belgium) in November 2019. I presented my Acrylic paintings on canvas “Paolo Horse” and “Bird Crook” (Illustrations for my novel “The Power of Orchis”) to the competition in the nomination for “Illustration”.

The illustrations were included in the short-list of the contest. According to the voting results, I received a “Generals of the World - for Peace” certificate for the active participation in strengthening peace, friendship and mutual understanding between nationals.

OCA: What would you advise for people who’re just starting their journey of creativity?

LB: “Life is short, Art eternal” - Hippocrates. Don’t be afraid to create! You have started this uneasy but interesting journey, and this means that you’re going for a win. Create for yourself and other people just because you can’t live without it. Don’t give up, you have a goal. Move towards it despite any obstacles.

OCA: What is “Eurasianism” for you?

LB: Eurasianism is a movement oriented at uniting nations with a common view on the world and striving to influence world history through art. It’s a dialogue between national cultures with ethnic unique features and historical identity.

It’s an integration and unification of close cultures and civilizations. It’s a fight against destruction of people and their cultures.

OCA: What does the Eurasian Creative Guild mean to you, and how has it influenced your creativity?

LB: For me, the Eurasian Creative Guild is a union of like-minded people, people who understand the meaning of life and who strive to make this world a better place.

The Eurasian Creative Guild has a large impact on the development of art. Firstly, competitions give motivation to act, secondly, festivals help to unite ethnicities. Every member of the Guild can tell the world about himself, show his own artworks, meet contemporary writers, painters, musicians, and to feel support. This is important in today’s world when socialisation has become limited. When I joined the Guild in 2017, I felt the support and attention. I know that my work will be presented to a wide audience and appreciated. I might not win a prize in a contest, but I will still be satisfied with my participation and be happy for the success of my colleagues.

In 2018, specially for the contest “Open Eurasia - 2018” in the nomination for “Prose” I wrote a fantasy-novel “The Power of Orchis” for teenagers about medicinal herbs and nature. Thanks to this contest, I started to practice acrylic painting. This new hobby gives me enormous energy. I feel as if I enter another world, full of colours and magic.

OCA: In which projects / exhibitions do you plan to participate in the future?

LB: I plan to participate in the contests of the Eurasian Creative Guild in the following nominations: prose, poetry, little poems in prose, illustration. If possible, I want to take part in the festival and the exhibition.

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