Uzbekistani artist Shohruh Suyunov is renowned for his remarkable street art in Tashkent, as well as his unique ability to create several portraits simultaneously using both his hands and feet. His extraordinary talent has been recognised by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the Manchester City football team, which features another talented Uzbekistani, Abdukodir Khusanov.
In an interview with Kursiv Uzbekistan, the artist talks about his unusual skills, sources of inspiration, street art and the needs of Uzbekistani artists.
Rubik’s cube secret
— How did you develop such impressive skills in drawing with your hands and feet? What is your secret exercise?
— I have never received any special training to draw with my hands and feet — it all started by chance! One day, I stumbled upon a video of a Korean artist drawing four portraits simultaneously using both hands and feet. Inspired by this, I decided to challenge myself and try it. I prepared for the task and attempted to draw four portraits at once. The process took about two hours, and the results turned out even better than I expected!
I continued experimenting and gradually increased the number of portraits I could draw simultaneously. My current personal record is creating portraits of 11 football players simultaneously using both hands and feet. Previously, I had never drawn or written with my left hand; I always used my right hand. However, I have a hobby that helped me develop my coordination: solving Rubik’s cubes. I can solve a Rubik’s cube with my left hand in just 20 seconds. This skill played a significant role in training my hands to work independently.
One day, I decided to conduct an unusual experiment: I attempted to draw a 2-meter portrait with my right hand while simultaneously solving five Rubik’s cubes with my left hand — all within 15 minutes. After successfully completing this challenge, I had a new idea: why not try drawing with both hands at the same time? I tested this by drawing three portraits simultaneously, and when that worked, I decided to add my feet into the mix. Solving Rubik’s cubes also helped me master drawing with my feet, enhancing finger dexterity and strengthening brain-hand coordination. This is why I was able to achieve this skill naturally, without any special training.
Inspirational sources
— Who do you consider to be your teachers?
— I believe that every artist, experience and challenge in my life has, in some way, been a teacher to me. Although I haven’t had a single mentor guiding me step by step, I have learned immensely by observing the works of great artists from both the past and present. Their creativity, dedication and unique approaches have been my constant inspiration.
Moreover, my greatest teachers have been self-discipline, consistent practice and a relentless drive to push my limits. To me, learning is a never-ending journey. I am always striving to challenge myself, discover new techniques and bring something extraordinary to life with every stroke of my hand or foot.
— Where do you find your inspiration?
— The most profound source of my inspiration is the unwavering belief I see in my parents’ eyes. Their trust and support constantly empower me. Every achievement and every portrait I create is not just for myself but for their happiness and pride. As long as I keep pushing forward and striving for my goals, I am fulfilling my dreams and honouring those who believe in me.
Beyond this, I find inspiration in life itself — particularly in ordinary people’s emotions, struggles and dreams. Every person has a unique story; when these stories are captured through art, they take on a deeper meaning. Through my drawings, I don’t just create images; I express emotions and narrate untold stories.
The fusion of technology and traditional art is another big source of inspiration for me. I aim to reflect contemporary issues such as digital addiction, environmental crises and societal changes through my work. Art is not just about creating beauty; it is also a powerful tool to ask important questions, provoke thought and evoke emotions. True art is not just about what is drawn on a canvas; it’s about its impact on people’s hearts and minds.
— What is your favourite technique for drawing or painting? Have you learned something new that will surprise us soon?
— My favourite technique is breaking boundaries and experimenting with what seems impossible. Traditionally, artists use their hands to draw, but for me, art is not just about hands or paint. By drawing with both hands and both feet simultaneously, I expand my technical abilities and showcase the limitless potential of human creativity.
When it comes to painting, I don’t restrict myself to conventional materials. I love working with glow-in-the-dark paints, coffee, salt, or even toothpaste — anything that allows me to bring a unique perspective to my art. Art isn’t just about brushes and canvases; it can manifest through anything around us.
As for new experiments, I’ll keep it a secret for now! But I can tell you this— I’m working on a project that will redefine the way we experience art. Maybe I’ll combine drawing with interactive elements, experiment with light and movement, or invent an entirely new technique using unexpected materials. One thing is sure — you’re in for a surprise!
Morden artist’s manifest
— Street art is quite contradictory. It is officially forbidden in many countries; however, artists continue to create it. Why do they do this?
— Street art is not merely painted on walls; it serves as a voice for the unheard, an act of rebellion and sometimes the only means of conveying the truth. Despite official prohibitions, artists continue to create because street art is more than just decoration; it represents a conversation with society and a raw expression of reality.
Street art does not ask for permission. It is a manifesto, a statement and at times, a form of resistance. People pass by thousands of advertisements every day — visuals that they cannot escape. Yet, one powerful piece of street art can stop them in their tracks and provoke thought. Authorities attempt to regulate it because it is unpredictable, untamed, and one of the purest forms of free expression. This is why street art endures, it is not about seeking approval, it is about telling the truth.
— How do you interpret the mission of the modern artist?
— The mission of a modern artist goes beyond simply creating beautiful images. It involves being the “eyes” of humanity—revealing the unseen, expressing the unspoken, and acting as a mirror to society itself.
In today’s world, art serves more than just aesthetic pleasure; it is a powerful tool to challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and evoke deep emotions. A modern artist is not only a creator but also a philosopher, reporter, provocateur, and visionary. They are attuned to societal issues, envision the future, and translate these concepts into colours, lines, and forms.
While artists of the past primarily worked with walls and canvases, today, art can exist anywhere—in the virtual realm, on the streets, and even in air and light. Perhaps in the future, I will create art using entirely new technologies, like turning air molecules into paint! Who knows what possibilities lie ahead?
— What are the real needs of artists in Uzbekistan? How can the country support them?
— Uzbekistani artists need three key things: recognition, resources and freedom.
There is a lot of incredible artistic talent in Uzbekistan, but many artists struggle to gain visibility beyond their local communities. International exhibitions, collaborations and media attention would help showcase their work to the world.
High-quality art materials, professional workshops and financial support for independent artists are essential. Many young artists face challenges simply because they can’t afford proper tools or studio spaces. Grants, scholarships, and government or private sponsorships could change that.
True creativity thrives when artists can express themselves without limitations. While Uzbekistan has a rich cultural heritage, modern artists need the space to experiment, push boundaries and address contemporary issues. Encouraging artistic innovation, rather than restricting it, would elevate Uzbekistan’s art scene to a global level.
If the country invests in these areas, Uzbekistani artists will not just follow trends but set them.
Opportunities and no limits
— Share your dream with Kursiv.
— My biggest dream is to inspire people through art and make them believe in the limitless potential of human creativity. I want my work to be more than just something to look at. I want it to push people to take action, break their boundaries and explore their hidden abilities.
I also dream of introducing Uzbek art to the world, showcasing the uniqueness of our national culture to a global audience through my creations.
Moreover, I aspire to create opportunities for young and talented artists, providing them with a platform to discover their artistic paths. Art has the power to change perspectives and make people think deeply about important issues. I am committed to producing works that influence society and highlight meaningful topics.
