Interview
Yuliya Alagir
Yuliya Alagir is an internationally recognized artist known for her unique artistic direction, Mystery of the Sun, which has explored conceptual symbolism through allegorical themes since 1999. Originally from Tashkent, Central Asia, she is descended from the ancient Ossetian family of North Ossetia-Alania, Russia. A self-taught artist, Alagir developed her techniques through immersive study in galleries and museums, forging an original and innovative artistic approach. Her work spans a diverse range of media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, murals, frescoes, jewelry-making, and installations.
Her complex layering of colors creates a striking three-dimensional effect, allowing her paintings to change in color under different lighting conditions. Alagir gained prominence in 1998 with her Mystery of the Sun direction, which later inspired additional series such as ProtoArt, The Temple of the Sun, Altar of Eternity, The Priestess of the Sun, The Lost Civilizations, Astrological Ages of the World, Accessories of the People of the Sun, and Vessels of Life. Since 2004, she has been rated as an Established Professional Artist in United Art Rating. Her artworks have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums across Uzbekistan, the USA, Canada, Italy, Australia, and beyond. Notable exhibitions include The Portal to Dreams at Agora Gallery in New York City. Her works are housed in public galleries and private collections in Canada, Russia, Australia, Italy, Israel, France, the US, Uzbekistan, and Yugoslavia. Additionally, her art has been acquired for the permanent collections of the Museum of Contemporary Art of Uzbekistan and the National Art Collection/Archives of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan. Alagir is a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, the Canadian Watercolour Society, and the Creative Union of Artists under the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan. Recognizing the challenges artists face in establishing themselves, she is dedicated to supporting emerging talent. To this end, she founded the Alagir Art Academy, providing mentorship to help young artists refine their creative voices and navigate the complexities of the art industry. Now based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she continues to create thought-provoking, multilayered works that serve as a bridge between generations, preserving cultural heritage while inspiring new artistic explorations.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My path in art was not predetermined, yet it was hardly a coincidence. Born in Uzbekistan, Central Asia - a region rich in cultural and artistic heritage - I grew up surrounded by contrasts. From an early age, I experienced beauty and hardship, light and darkness. My family life was full of challenges, and survival was often a struggle, which taught me the value of resilience and the importance of finding joy in small moments. These experiences shaped my ability to adapt, strengthened my intuition, and taught me to find meaning even in difficult times. They became the driving force behind my artistic journey, fueling my desire to explore the interplay between adversity and the pursuit of prosperity. In 1997, I began working on my unique artistic direction - The Mystery of the Sun. Rooted in Conceptual Symbolism, this art movement presents the Sun as a symbol of peace, kindness, and growth. It visually conveys these values without relying on specific languages, cultural references, or ethnic elements, making its message universally accessible. For me, The Mystery of the Sun is not just a style but a philosophy - a way to explore deep questions about life, transformation, and renewal. Through my work, I merge ancient symbolism with a modern perspective, illustrating how the past and present are interconnected. Today, through timeless symbols, I share my story and reflect on universal human experiences. I want my art to be more than just an image - it is a conversation, an invitation for viewers to think, feel, and reflect. Over time, The Mystery of the Sun has become an essential part of my artistic journey, merging my personal experiences, philosophy, and creativity. Each of my paintings carries a message of resilience, hope, and the belief that even in the darkest moments, there is always a source of light guiding us toward prosperity.”
What inspires you?
“I draw inspiration from nature, human history, its achievements, and the values that foster personal growth. My deep interest in human psychology drives me to explore the vast potential within us, unlocking new possibilities through artistic expression. This passion fuels my desire to push boundaries, challenge myself, and embark on a continuous journey of discovery. I am inspired by the pursuit of new horizons in art, the exploration of uncharted territories, and the search for innovative forms of self-expression.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work explores themes of ancient symbolism, human history, and the pursuit of knowledge. Through my art direction, ‘The Mystery of the Sun,’ I delve into the connection between positive human behavior, morals, and social and personal developmental progress, drawing inspiration from forgotten civilizations, sacred spaces, and the power of the sun as a source of life and wisdom. The underlying message in my work reflects the values that have driven humanity toward growth, creation, and harmony. I aim to remind viewers of preserving and cultivating these ideals in the modern world. Art, for me, is not just a visual expression but a means to reconnect with timeless truths, encourage introspection, and inspire a deeper appreciation for our collective human journey.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is a dialogue between various materials - such as canvas, plaster, and paint, pigments - and their textures. Each piece I create reflects an intuitive process, akin to an archaeologist uncovering layers of history, but in my case, it is a reverse process; I apply layers of paint one after another. My art is inspired by ancient cultures, traditions, and aspects of human history. Since moving to Canada, I have developed a profound connection to the land and its natural beauty, which inspires me to explore the wildness and authenticity of nature in my work. Currently, I am expanding my direction ‘Mystery of the Sun’ while also developing new collections that are directly linked to the Canadian landscape. My creative process often begins with conceptualizing ideas, followed by a technical exploration of various artistic techniques, such as acrylic, mixed media, and watercolor painting. I strive to experiment with innovative forms of expression, continually seeking new ways to present my artistic vision.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I am inspired by past and present artists who combine mastery with depth of ideas. In their works, I find technical excellence and powerful symbolism that reflect fundamental questions of human existence. I pay close attention to those who not only refine their technical skills but also push the boundaries of their themes and narratives. These artists take risks, exploring uncharted territories, which resonates deeply with me. Observing their journeys, I sense their genuine desire to leave a meaningful mark on the art world, creating work that will inspire future generations. Their commitment to authenticity and innovation mirrors my artistic approach, as I strive to create work that provokes thought and emotional engagement.”
“My work explores themes of ancient symbolism, human history, and the pursuit of knowledge.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process begins with brainstorming ideas, where I allow my thoughts to flow freely and sketch different concepts that inspire me. Once I have a clear vision, I choose the specific style, artistic techniques, and materials to bring that vision to life. I use multiple layers of paint to create depth and a three-dimensional effect in my work. This layering adds richness and texture, making the pieces more engaging for viewers. I pay close attention to how light interacts with these layers, creating an illusion of space that enhances the overall visual experience - this is my passion. I also enjoy experimenting with new materials and techniques, embracing the unexpected results that arise along the way. This approach allows me to push the boundaries of my art and create pieces that are both visually striking and personally meaningful. Overall, my creative process combines intuition and technical skills, supported by over 20 years of professional experience. Each step contributes to the narrative of my work. I view art as an evolving journey and remain open to new challenges and opportunities for growth.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“Artists serve as storytellers, using the language of art to leave marks in history for future generations. They shape the direction of society by guiding where attention should be focused. An artist does not just create; they offer a prism of perception that can influence social norms and mental processes. For instance, when an artist depicts the beauty of nature and praises it, viewers begin to recognize the importance of preserving and valuing it, establishing this appreciation as a societal norm. Conversely, an artist who focuses on themes of destruction or fear can evoke feelings that may lead to apprehension or unease among people. This can create a sense of anticipation for negative encounters or fears of the unknown. Therefore, artists bear immense responsibility for their impact on human life. What they create shapes societal values and may influence the future. If they wish for future generations to inhabit a world filled with goodness and development, they must embed these values in their work. This reflects the social responsibilities of artists.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Selected pieces from my art direction, ‘The Mystery of the Sun,’ are part of permanent collections in several museums, including the Lazgi Museum in Uzbekistan, which is dedicated to ancient heritage, Lazgi dance, and Zoroastrianism, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art of Uzbekistan and the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan. Over the years, I have participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Uzbekistan, the USA, Canada, and Russia, each of which has opened new contexts for dialogue with different cultures. My art direction, ‘The Mystery of the Sun,’ aims to create immersive experiences that invite viewers to explore the connections between history, culture, and the symbolism of the Sun, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared human experiences. I received the Best Creative Imagination award at the Tashkent Biennale for my installation, ‘Temple of the Sun.’ My artistic journey continues to evolve as I seek to engage audiences and inspire meaningful conversations.”
