Elvira Ismagilova is a painter whose practice explores the passage of time and its reflections across art, memory, and nature. Working primarily in oil on paper and canvas, she draws inspiration from botanical artists and natural forms, combining close observation with an interest in cycles of growth, fading, and renewal.

Her recent work reflects on time not only as a natural rhythm but also as a philosophical question of our connection to the wider macrocosm, echoing the ideas of Nikolai Berdyaev and the cinematic visions of Andrei Tarkovsky. Through colour, layering, and composition, she seeks to hold moments that are both fleeting and contemplative, offering viewers a space to pause and reflect.

With a background in engineering, Elvira brings a structured and analytical way of working into her artistic process. This discipline shapes her methodical approach to research, experimentation, and the building of a cohesive body of work, while allowing space for poetry and intuition within the final painting.

Born in 1977 in Magnitogorsk, Russia
Lives and works in London, UK

Education
1999 BSc (Honours), MaSU, Magnitogorsk, Russia
2026 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, OCAD, London, UK

Exhibitions
2024 Winter Exhibition, Kew Art Studio, London, UK
2025 ArtSeen during Frieze, London, UK
   Shortlisted for Summer Exhibition, Royal Academy, London, UK
   21st Community Art Exhibition, Circular ArtSpace, Bristol, UK
   Golden Connections, POSK Gallery, London, UK
   Soul in Motion, Espacio Gallery, London, UK
   Winter Exhibition, Kew Art Studio, London, UK
   Arts Richmond, BobCat Gallery, London, UK
2026 Silent Seeds, POSK Gallery, London, UK

Elvira Ismagilova’s work is held in private collections in Russia and the UK.

Residencies
2024–present Resident Artist, Kew Art Studio, London, UK