In the 2025 NTD International Realistic Oil Painting Competition, Slovenian artist Nik Anikis won the bronze award with his piece “The Sacred Creator.” He mentioned that painting is not just a technique or form, but a way to have a dialogue with life, time and the depths of one’s heart.
Learning the language of painting and fully immersing oneself in art to express what you feel, what the world needs, or what the soul desires to say, is the greatest blessing for an artist, according to Anikis.
To Anikis, painting is a language that requires long-term cultivation. “Learning to paint is not just about using a brush, but about learning how to observe, understand, and conceptualize. You can paint like a photograph, but to present a person’s soul is the key, all of which come from a profound understanding of details.”
Continuing to learn and seeking advice from masters is a necessary path for growth. Over the years, Nik has continuously studied and participated in workshops to learn those “invisible details” that inspire him.
Regarding his award-winning piece “The Sacred Creator,” Anikis described the painting as portraying the inner “creator archetype” of humanity.
“The vastness of the universe deeply inspires me. We, these tiny lives, can create art, music, technology, and beauty; at the same time, we can also create evil and destruction. This contrast makes me wonder: is there an ancient element hidden deep within us, a star burning within?”
The figure floating in the universe in the painting symbolizes the cosmic laws of creation and destruction; the four arms represent the “omnipresent creator,” with humans being a part of it.
He embedded a “secret emerging over time” in the painting – a hidden rabbit that will gradually become transparent with oil paint over many years, possibly only surfacing after decades. “This painting is not a static message, but an existence that changes with time, telling its own story.”
In an age of high distraction and information overload, Anikis has established a strict creative rhythm for himself. He is accustomed to waking up at four or five in the morning to paint, “When the brain wakes up from dreams, the frequency is different, and I can immediately enter a state.”
He deliberately stays away from phones and social media. “Smartphones steal focus. Just a swipe can make the brain find painting boring. Focus requires energy, and you must protect it.”
In his 11 years of teaching, he has observed many struggles people face when painting: “Because every second requires focus, understanding, and every stroke can make the painting better or worse, so focus is the most important skill. This is my way to get into a state, not letting myself fall into dopamine (instant gratification) impulses, as I see it would destroy my focus and energy.”
For him, concerts, operas, ballet, and nature are another form of “input,” nourishing inspiration and the soul. “What you put into your heart will ultimately be output.”
Regarding the significance of realistic art in contemporary times, Anikis said, “Life is very difficult, full of tragedy, disease, and war. That is why having beauty is so necessary, it nurtures our souls, allowing us to see the world not just through gray glasses.”
He believes that the art of expressing beauty, spirituality, and ancient symbols is a common cultural foundation of humanity. “You read a book from five hundred years ago, and you can still see the commonality of human nature. These symbols and beauty can nourish us, bringing strength amidst chaos.”
He strongly believes that art can change lives. “I once proposed to my wife with a painting. The power and beauty of art can indeed make life better.”
He resonates deeply with the values promoted by the NTD International Realistic Oil Painting Competition, of “truth, kindness, and beauty.”
“When a place respects beauty, spirituality, and truth, it will attract more people and works with similar energies. I am honored to be a part of it.”
He believes that such competitions are not just showcase platforms but places for artists to learn from each other and grow, “This also elevates art to a higher level. When you want to touch others, you will strive to become the best version of yourself. Painting has changed my life, and when I paint, I feel connected to something greater.”
He believes that the mission of art transcends the present moment: “Our works hope to meet the people of the future after we are gone, bringing a bit of beauty to a world not yet born.”
“I like that NTD gathers artists who pursue beauty, truth, and kindness together. This is what the world truly needs.”