Public Republic

Interview of Yana Radilova with the artist Mihail Kamberov

Mihail Kamberov: “My paintings reflect my sensibility to the world. To me it is colourful and cheerful.”

Mihail Kamberov was born on November 20, 1952 in Sofia. Mihail Kamberov frequented School of Arts in Sofia until 1973. From 1976 to 1981 he studies painting in the National Academy of Fine Arts. Mihail Kamberov works and lives in Sofia . He is married and father of one son.

He is the founder of Foundation Kamberov aiming at the development of Bulgarian fine Arts and owner of two Art Galleries Mihail Kamberov in Sofia

Mihail Kamberov is an Honored member of:

•The Union of Bulgarian Artists – 1978
•The General Assembly of the Autumn Salon in Paris – 1993;
•The International Academy for Contemporary Art in – 1995;
•The European Art Group of the National Federation of French Culture.

What were your first steps as an artist?

I lived at “Gurko street” opposite the zoo and when I was a boy I used to go there and draw the animals. When I came home I made them of clay.

Have you always wanted to be an artist?

As long as I can remember, I have always been painting. I`ve been satisfied with my pursuit and I`ve followed my vocation.

Why did you decide to study painting at the National Academy of Fine Arts?

I am naturally emotional and life was colorful to me – that`s why I chose this subject.

You are the founder of Foundation Kamberov, which shows your desire to help Bulgarian art. Do you think there are many talented artists in Bulgaria who need support?

In my opinion, there are many gifted artists. I have many students and I`ve always showed them my own way. I have wanted to be like a bridge which leads them to presentations abroad. I take them to international simposiums and encourage their creativity.

What of your awards is your greatest achievement?

All of my awards are equally important to me because they evaluate my creative work.

Your paintings are so bright and vivid! Is life colourful or you distort the reality?

In my opinion life is colourful. I paint from nature and transfer on the canvas everything I see and feel. My paintings reflect my sensibility to the world. To me it is colourful and cheerful.

Which famous artists have influenced your art?

My favourite artist is Rembrand. Since my education at the School of Arts in Sofia I have used the principle of Rembrand in building the light and shade effects. I have followed the example of former masters whose paintings I saw at different museums.

What is the main idea of your paintings?

Festivity.

Do you have a “favourite” among your paintings?

Every last painting is my favourite…
But a special place takes a painting which I made twenty years ago – “The wiper of the last tears”.

What is your source of inspiration?

I am inspired by life and by the ones I love.

What is the role of the artist in society?

To create emotions, beauty and perfection not only in his paintings, but also in the relationships between people.

Do you teach your son to appreciate art?

Since childhood my son have always been among paintings, so it is natural for him to love art.

Send a message to all young artists!

Believe in you and always be in the search of your own way!

If you want to read more information or see photos, visit this site: www.kamberov.com