Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, Yusif Khalil is an artist who currently resides in Amsterdam after growing up in Moscow. His goal is to become a well-known personality in the art world, recognized for his imaginative artwork and distinct demeanor. Yusif has refined his artistic abilities by taking part in multiple art workshops. He started his artistic career as a florist and art designer in 2014. Yusif has worked in a variety of media during his career, such as painting, sculpture, and art design for floral arrangements and photo shoots. In this interview, he shares more about his personal and professional life as a floral designer and artist.
Learn More About Floral Artist and Designer Yusif Khalilov
Yusif, who has a sizable fan base on Instagram and other social media sites, is keen to reach a wider audience and establish more connections as he continues to create glorious floral designs and artistic pieces which include flowers. Join this interview to learn more about who he is, why he is inspired by flowers as well as his favorite artwork to this day.
Q: Tell us more about yourself. Who is Yusif Khalilov, what describes you and what are you passionate about?
Yusif:
"I specialize in using flowers to create art. I am passionate about bringing happiness and joy into people's lives because notably, in today's world, we are constantly surrounded by negative news. Through my flower-themed art projects, I aim to break this cycle and bring positivity into the lives of my family, friends, and those who like what I am doing. I like to think of myself as 'Yusif Khalilov, a talented contemporary artist."
Q: If you could describe yourself in a couple of words, what would they be?
Yusif:
"Surely I cannot describe myself with one word, but I can in two words: perfect madness."
Q: When did you first become curious about the flower industry? What was the moment in your life when you decided to give floral design a shot?
Yusif:
"Back in 2012, I visited a flower shop to buy a bouquet for one of my friends. However, the florist prepared a bouquet that I found displeasing. There, I asked if I could arrange the bouquet myself. The shop owner was surprised when I made myself the bouquet and offered me a job as a florist. It took me some time to consider the offer, but after a few weeks, I returned to the shop and began my career."
Q: How many years of experience do you have as a floral designer/artist?
Yusif:
"I started back in 2012 as a floral designer, and by now, I have 12 years of experience. However, I've always felt that I was born an artist."
Q: What is it you like most about working with flowers? What is your favorite flower to work with?
Yusif:
"Flowers are a piece of nature, their colors bring joy, and to me, they combine a range of emotions. Seeing someone smile upon receiving a flower is what I like most about working with them. My favorite flowers are spray roses, and I am happy to have become an ambassador for World of Spray Roses."
Q: What is your favorite flower design to this day?
Yusif:
"Every flower design has a special place in my heart, as I see them as a reflection of myself, made with my artistic vision. However, if I had to choose one, I would say the spray roses wall. This project required a lot of effort and dedication from me to bring my vision to life."
Q: What inspires you to create such artistic and flowering pieces?
Yusif:
"I am inspired by the music of artists I love and follow. Additionally, I also find inspiration in fashion shows."
Q: What do you want to bring to the flower design world this year?
Yusif:
"This year, my goal is to become a famous and well-known artist in the Netherlands and internationally. My dream is to exhibit my art projects in museums. With numerous ideas in mind, I am hopeful that this year will mark the realization of my dreams."
Q: What is your artistic goal with the use of flowers?
Yusif:
"In the flower industry, I am recognized for my out-of-the-box art projects, such as putting flowers onto walls, using them for clothing like jackets and hats, and even integrating them into paintings. My goal is to elevate flower design by transforming events and parties through floral installations. I want to design a stage, DJ set, and venue with flowers, creating immersive and unforgettable experiences for attendees."
Q: What makes your designs so unique and stand out from the crowd?
Yusif:
"My designs are characterized by a sense of nature and creativity. I gave flowers a second life in many of my projects, exploring innovative methods beyond traditional flower arrangements. As a florist, I don't limit myself to creating bouquets; instead, I merge flowers in various ways, leading to special and unique creations. I picture flowers in places where normally shouldn’t be."
If you're curious to know what Yusif refers to when he says his designs and creative pieces are 'out-of-the-box, make sure to read the article 'An Exclusive Collaboration Unveils a Luxury Floral Jacket'. To follow Yusif's creations, follow him on his personal Instagram account.
Photos courtesy of Yusif Khalilov