In this self portrait, Ulviyya Iman depicts herself staring out at the viewer with a resolute expression. Her body is still, with her arms by her sides, her facial features are neutral, yet the psychological tension within the painting suggests an alternate reality beneath the surface. Reaching round to grip her right arm, four long red fingers pin her in place. The figure to whom this hand belongs is seated alongside her yet the artist crops the composition at his shoulder - retaining his anonymity and emphasizing herself as the central focus of the painting. With the inclusion of this hand however, the work assimilates greater cultural context. In addition to reflecting the artist’s personal experiences within relationships, this work speaks more broadly to domestic relationships and the power dynamics between men and women. By painting herself this way, Iman presents herself as defiant, strong and purposeful, with self-determination despite the social pressures that may define her environment. The frontal composition is assured, and reminiscent of proto-feminist artists such as Frida Kahlo and Vigée Le Brun, however the dominant use of red in the painting suggests moral ambiguity. Colour is used symbolically within Iman’s work, with red frequently indicating corruption. If the implication suggested in Self Portrait, Red is that she has been psychologically tainted by her relationship with her mystery companion, the question suggested in her gaze is can she reverse this? 

Ulviyya Iman (b. 2007) is a multidisciplinary artist from Azerbaijan currently based in Prague, Czech Republic. Exploring themes of local daily scenes, she often highlights gender roles in society. Iman garners inspiration from her trips to the regions of Azerbaijan, working both from memory and imagination. In her paintings of bright characters and food, Ulviyya explores the everyday iconography of contemporary society. As an emerging artist, Iman exhibits the potential to make a lasting impact on both the Azerbaijani and global art landscapes. Her work has featured in Art Dubai (2025) a group exhibition Once a Sea, YARAT, Baku (2025) and Her Art In Action, Gazelli Art House, Baku (2024).