London

Mansur Nurillaev

Decorative painter | Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Singularly Uzbek baubles

Mansur's workshop is located in one of the most important sites of Samarkand
Uzbek motifs are always present in his work
His pieces are made from ceramics which he paints

In the old madrasah called Rukhobod, in the historical centre of Samarkand, lies the very pleasant and atmospheric workshop of Mansur Nurillaev, a master of New Year tree decorations. The master laughs and says that he never imagined that one day he would be making unique tree toys that have become famous not only in Uzbekistan but also abroad. Mansur learnt his craft from his uncle, a famous Samarkand artist who is the founder of the Samarkand School of Miniature Painting. He decided to dedicate himself to this craft, which he still enjoys practising today. Mansur prefers to paint the traditional Uzbek 'ikat' motifs on his ceramic ornaments. "I am inspired by the architecture and sights of Samarkand, choosing certain colours and ornaments from them," says Mansur.

Interview

When did you start working professionally?: I started working professionally when I was 21 years old. Until then I had been studying at Samarkand School of Miniature Painting, founded by my uncle Akhmad Umarov. As a child I was very interested in his craft. I always wanted to learn how to paint, and especially how to paint miniatures.
Have you ever experimented in your work?: My craft is considered traditional and most of the time I work with a certain technique, but I am always open to experimenting and trying to bring something new to my work. For example, I try to make new shapes for my New Year tree decorations, I do not just make them round. A modern shape paired with traditional painting – I think it works beautifully.
What do you love most about your craft?: I love everything about my craft, from the process of creating the ceramic toys to the varnishing of the finished work. I find it very inspiring to realise that you can use ordinary clay to create something that can be passed on from generation to generation.
What is the most important skill in your work?: I think the most important skills in my work are diligence and patience. It is only through patience and hard work that you can learn anything, including any craft. It is rightly believed that talent is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.

Mansur Nurillaev is a master artisan: he began his career in 1994 and he started teaching in 1997