Guided by Nature, Driven by Passion: Marika Lordkipanidze’s Journey Through Art

MARIKA LORDKIPANIDZE

ARTIST

Marika is a self-taught Georgian artist from the picturesque village of Dikhashkho in the Vani region. Trained as both a doctor and financier, she discovered painting as her true calling six years ago, creating all her works at night while balancing a demanding professional life.

Deeply inspired by nature and her childhood surroundings, Marika's art spans diverse themes and styles. Her works have been exhibited internationally in countries including Georgia, Dubai, Japan, Italy, and more. A passionate animal advocate, she also cares for 12 homeless and disabled dogs, drawing creative energy from their companionship. Marika's journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the belief that it's never too late to follow your true path.

ARTIST INTERVIEW Originally published in the print edition of Indacy Media Global Magazine (Vol. 1, Issue 2, August 2025).

INDACY: • Can you tell us about your childhood in Dikhashkho and how the natural surroundings shaped your early interest in art?

Marika: Dikhashkho is a beautiful village in the Vani region. Surrounded by beautiful mountains. In ancient times, one of the most important cities of ancient Colchis was located here, which flourished in the 6th–4th centuries BC. The city is located on the western outskirts of modern Vani, on a place known as the Akhvlediani Hill. Remains of ancient settlements have also been discovered in the area around Vani, which archaeologists conditionally call the "Vani Country". As a child, the nature of our region and village had a great influence on me, which I expressed through drawing and sculpture. In my free time, I was only occupied with these activities.

INDACY: • Were there any particular moments or experiences in your youth that inspired you to explore creativity or express yourself visually?

Marika: I didn't have a special moment that I would specifically associate with painting. I just always felt deep down that I was always drawn to painting.

INDACY: • Before turning to art, you trained as a general practitioner and worked in finance. How did these early professional paths influence your perspective on life and creativity?

Marika: Yes, I am a doctor. I am also a financier. Therefore, my schedule is quite busy and tiring. I could not resist the temptation to draw so much, I started doing it at night, because I literally did not have time for it during the day.

I did not sleep. Therefore, all my works are created at night. This moment is probably very interesting. Instead, I was free from all kinds of emotions at this time and relaxed. This life became my style.

INDACY: • Six years ago, you discovered painting as your primary form of expression. What sparked this shift, and how did you know it was the right path?

Marika: I always knew I wanted to draw, I used to draw all the time as a child, but I never seriously thought about what I could achieve. I just decided one day to take this job professionally. I actually worked on myself for two years, looking for all kinds of information and learning all the techniques independently. When I realized that I was ready to create a work of art at some level, I bought all the necessary materials in one day and created my first work. I still stick with this decision to this day.

INDACY: • Nature is a recurring theme in your work. How do your early experiences with Georgia’s landscapes continue to inspire your compositions today?

Marika: You will be surprised, and earlier in my childhood I used to draw cartoon characters. I also loved drawing temples. I was afraid of landscapes because I thought it was a rather difficult subject. However, a few months ago, I think I coped with this task quite well and with success. I don't know if this is good or bad, but I don't have any specific style, I can draw on any subject, but I have to want it. There have been months when I haven't picked up a brush at all, it has to come by itself to draw and I'm just waiting for this moment.

INDACY: • How did your collaboration with International First Wish Art Gallery come about, and how did it help you reach audiences globally?

Marika: I remember four years ago, I discovered First Art Gallery on social media. The exhibition was being held at Worth Art Dubai. I said to myself: Marika, go! Why not! I contacted the manager Mariam Simashvili, sent her my short story, told her that I was a self-taught artist and if I could try my hand at this exhibition, I also sent her a few works. Mariam introduced me to the rules, explained all the expected results, both negative and positive. It was decided that I would participate in this exhibition. This began my adventurous adventure at international exhibitions, which has been going on for 4 years now, and for this I would like to thank Mrs. Mariam and Irshad!

INDACY: • Your art has been exhibited internationally — in Georgia, Dubai (UAE), Japan, Italy, Netherlands, Jordan and so on. Which exhibition was most memorable, and why?

Marika: Yes, there were also exhibitions in Spain, Turkey, Amsterdam, and Armenia. All exhibitions are memorable and very interesting due to their culture, but I remember one where I really wanted to go and physically, even though I got a visa and was ready to go, I couldn't go because a little girl came into my life prematurely. My granddaughter. So if there is another exhibition in Japan, I will definitely go with my family.

INDACY: • Caring for 12 homeless and disabled dogs shows your deep compassion. How does your love for animals influence your creativity or artistic message?

Marika: I have adopted homeless animals, they give me the most energy and stimulation in life. They have a very positive effect on me. I get the most energy from interacting with them and taking care of them. This, of course, affects my mood, my character, and my creativity! They are full members of my family!

INDACY: • How do you balance your multiple passions — painting, animal advocacy, and other pursuits — while maintaining a consistent artistic voice?

Marika: This surprises me sometimes too. I've often thought about it, but I realized that this is how I should be! If even one link falls out of this, my life won't be complete!

INDACY: • Looking back at your journey from a small village to international recognition, what advice would you give to young artists just starting out?

Marika: I would say that there is no dream, no goal that you cannot achieve! Never give up! I have also given encouragement to many! To try! Do what you want! To listen to your own self! To love yourself! You will definitely find yourself with small steps and be happy in this beautiful world!