The artwork of a
talented Kazakh artist captured the interest of Warner Bros Games, the U.S.
video game developer. Last year, the company invited Kanat Nurtazin to
participate in an advertising campaign for Mortal Kombat. Thus, he became one
of the 17 artist ambassadors from all over the world. The uniqueness of his
works is that Nurtazin creates illustrations from tree leaves, skillfully
carving out various images. This technique is known as carving.
“The first piece
featured Scorpion, and the second portrayed Jade. These are Mortal Kombat
characters. Both works required intricate cutting. The third one allowed more
creative freedom, as the company gave no specific tasks. During our
discussions, an idea struck me. They presented the main video, where Liu Kang,
the game’s main character, gestured the Mortal Kombat sign, and I was inspired
to carve out this scene on the leaves,” Nurtazin shared.
The artist’s unique
works also captured the interest of other global brands and TV channels, such
as Disney, Nickelodeon, and Nick Junior. It bears noting that he does not have
a formal artistic education and works in a different field. Nevertheless, the
art of carving has long been part of his everyday life and has become more than
just a hobby.
“I just had a work
trip to the United Arab Emirates. We are currently in discussions regarding
potential collaboration with its tourism authorities. In my artworks, I always
strive to present the history and heroes of the country I am traveling to while
adding various Kazakh ornaments. Thus, I want to share the story of the country
I’m visiting and establish a connection with our own history, making my works
closer to our audience,” Nurtazin added.
Leaves are not the
only material Nurtazin uses to create illustrations. The artist's boundless
imagination enables him to find inspiration for creating unique and unmatched
works of art from the simplest available items, including plaster, paper,
thread, nails, and even fruit and vegetables. Familiar with different methods
of self-expression, the artist became the author of a unique art project titled
‘100 drawing methods’.
Editor: Aizhan
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