Interview with Ľudmila Gašparíková

Ľudmila Gašparíková is one of the most successful artists associated with NAIVA BRATISLAVA. She received the STORY AWARD in 2019 and, most recently, the exhibition's highest distinction, the GRAND PRIX 2025. Her paintings are admired not only for their colorful visual language but also for their ability to tell stories and create a unique atmosphere.

In this interview, she reflects on her artistic journey, her sources of inspiration, and the joy she finds in painting.

How did your journey into art begin?

My interest in art began in early childhood. I grew up surrounded by books and spent hours looking at illustrations before I could even read. I especially admired the work of illustrator Jaroslav Vodrážka and often tried to recreate his drawings.

Later, I attended art classes in Žilina, where I learned the basics of drawing, painting, printmaking, and modeling. Thanks to inspiring teachers, my relationship with art became much deeper, and for some time I even considered pursuing an artistic career.

However, my interest in foreign languages eventually led me in a different direction. I studied English and Russian and later spent thirty-five years teaching at the University of Žilina. Although art remained close to my heart, work and family responsibilities left little time for creative activities.

After retirement, I finally had the opportunity to return to painting. It was like rediscovering an important part of myself. Today, painting helps me relax, recharge, and express my thoughts and emotions. It brings me joy and a sense of fulfillment.

You have been actively exhibiting for many years. How important has that experience been for your development as an artist?

For the past twelve years, I have been a member of the Club of Amateur Artists in Žilina. The club provides a space not only for creating but also for exchanging ideas and experiences with other artists.

I regularly participate in exhibitions and competitions, including Výtvarné spektrum, Tvorba, NAIVA BRATISLAVA, and INSITA Prague. These events have given me valuable opportunities to present my work and receive feedback from both professionals and visitors.

Receiving the Story Award at NAIVA BRATISLAVA 2019 and the Grand Prix at NAIVA BRATISLAVA 2025 has been a great honor and encouragement for me to continue creating.

Your awards show that naïve art continues to resonate with audiences. What do you value most about this artistic style?

I do not have formal academic training in fine art, so I would not attempt to define naïve art precisely. What attracts me most is its colorfulness, playfulness, humor, and authenticity.

Every artist has a unique way of seeing the world, yet many naïve artworks share a special quality: they radiate warmth, joy, and harmony. There is an honesty in this kind of art that people can immediately feel.

I often think that naïve artists paint not only with their brushes but also with their hearts.

Where do you find inspiration for your paintings?

My inspiration comes mainly from everyday life. Children are one of my favorite subjects because they are spontaneous, imaginative, and full of energy. I enjoy observing how they play, communicate, and discover the world around them.

For me, painting is a form of storytelling. I usually begin with a simple idea or scene, but as I work, the story develops naturally. Quite often, the finished painting tells a completely different story from the one I originally had in mind.

That creative process is one of the things I enjoy most about painting.

What advice would you give to people who would like to start painting but feel unsure about their abilities?

The most important thing is to make time for it and to find the courage to begin. Many people think they need special talent or training, but the first step is simply to try.

Today, art materials are easily available, and there are countless sources of inspiration and practical advice online. The key is not to be afraid of making mistakes and to enjoy the process.

My advice is simple: just start.

I would also like to share one of my favorite quotes by Pablo Picasso:

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up."

Thank you for the interview.

Thank you for sharing your story and your thoughts on art. We wish you good health, continued creative energy, many new ideas, and further success at exhibitions both in Slovakia and abroad.

We look forward to seeing you again at NAIVA BRATISLAVA 2026.

Interviewed by Adžana Modlitbová
Director of ART 40 & NAIVA BRATISLAVA

Photos: Archive of the artist