Autumn is here, which means that it’s time to go back to school, to home, to friends, and to enjoy a variety of festivals and exhibitions.
BI Auction has brought back ‘Meet the Artists‘ after the summer break. Nino Kvrivishvili is the first artist to be featured.
Bengu Akcardak Kucuk is the Co-Founder and Partner at BI Auction. He says that Nino is a textile art artist who reflects radiance, not only because of her talent but also her warm and accommodating nature. “She does not only create in her studio but also works at the Academy of Art, supporting future artists as well as expats interested in creating by offering special English courses.”
Nino Kvrivishvili is a Textile Design graduate of the Tbilisi State Academy of Art. She has exhibited both in Georgia and abroad. Her most recent solo shows were at the Museum Waschefabrik in Bielefeld, Gallery Melike Bilir in Hamburg, and the Czech Cultural Center in Paris.
The artist tells us: “I’ve taken part in group exhibitions such as ‘Long-distance Friendships’ at the Kaunas 14th Biennial,’ LINKS in collaboration with Gallery Artbeat at the Nathalie Karg Gallery in the USA; SILK in collaboration with GAD _Giudecca Art District Gallery in Italy; and many others.” “I am currently preparing for the exhibition titled ‘Landscapes of an Continuing Past’, a show conceived by Urbane Kunste Ruhr and Zollverein Foundation in collaboration for the Ruhrtriennale’s salt warehouse.
Nino has participated in several art residency programs over the past few decades in Germany, Switzerland and Lithuania. She has gained some unique experiences in her quest to advance her career.
“I am proud to mention that I helped establish a textile studio in the Adjara Region. “This journey began with my professor Iano Jikia to whom I dedicated my work presented at Kaunas Biennial,” says she. “It’s always refreshing for artists to be outside of their home country, but I feel great working in my Tbilisi studio.”
How would you describe the work that you do? What artists or trends in art have had a major impact on you?
I create textile installations. I’m curious to see how my drawings translate into materials and how I can use contemporary textile making.
I am inspired by the Georgian avant-garde artist David Kakabadze, whose knowledge and attitude to color is visible in his works. I am inspired by the Georgian avant-garde painter David Kakabadze. His knowledge and attitude towards color are evident in his work.
G. Marandi’s work also inspires me. I love to see works by artists who are rarely displayed in museums. The intimate part of the work for me is seeing their sketches and studies drawings.
Name an artwork that you think everyone should “live” see.
The Milkmaid, by J. Vermeer and anything by David Kakabadze.
What do you think of the virtual art space?
I’m afraid that the virtual art space is still beyond reality. I prefer the idea of real objects and their presence in our everyday lives. We can’t get bored when we see art in the real world.
Galleries and auctions are important for artists who have already had a lot of experience.
You also offer art classes at the Academy in English. Tell us more.
I am a strong supporter of art education. Art is routine, knowledge; it’s not a quick fix.
I teach art to my students and I also work with other professionals in order to provide art education to the public. These are short programs that anyone can use to learn art skills.
How would you rate the changes in Georgian art?
As I studied in Tbilisi, and I know the happenings during my student years I would say something new began in young artists’ lives in 2013.
I remember the first ‘Popiashvili-Gvaberidze Windows Project’ gallery that opened in the city centre and showcased young artists. That was a real starting point for positive change.
Many art initiatives were created to showcase the young generation.
What are your hopes for Georgian artists and art?
I hope that the same will happen with Georgian art.
Interview with Team GT
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