Vladimir Volegov
1957, Khabarovsk, Russia
As an art curator, it is both a joy and privilege to share the life and work of extraordinary artists who leave an indelible mark on the world of art. Today, we delve into the remarkable journey of Vladimir Volegov, an artist whose mastery of romantic realism has captured the hearts of art enthusiasts worldwide.
Early Life and Artistic Inclinations
Born in Khabarovsk, Russia, on December 19, 1957, Vladimir Volegov exhibited an innate passion for art from an early age. Despite his mother’s aspirations for him to pursue a career in medicine, Vladimir’s artistic talent was undeniable. His childhood was marked by frequent relocations, yet his dedication to drawing remained constant. At just 13, he earned his first income by creating banners, and by 14, he was already painting cinema posters—a precursor to the creative path that lay ahead.
During his time in Krivoi Rog, Vladimir attended an arts school, where he discovered and admired the works of classical painters such as Ilya Repin and Valentin Serov. These influences became pivotal in shaping his artistic style and ambition.
Academic and Professional Foundations
In 1980, Vladimir joined the School of Graphics at the Lvov Institute of Printing Art. His admission was a testament to his exceptional talent, as his entrance exam illustration—an interpretation of the novel The Young Guard—left an indelible impression on the admission committee. Throughout his academic journey, Vladimir’s artistic voice continued to evolve, absorbing inspiration from both classical and contemporary movements.
A Blossoming Career in Art and Design
The 1980s marked a significant turning point for Vladimir. In 1982, he led the SPLAV artistic association in Krivoi Rog, fostering creativity within his community. His frequent visits to Moscow allowed him to participate in international poster exhibitions, where he won accolades, including first prize in a notable contest. It was during this time that the works of Andreas Zorn profoundly influenced him, further enriching his artistic repertoire.
By 1988, Vladimir had relocated to Moscow, where he began painting portraits in Arbat while seeking opportunities in publishing, advertising, and music industries. As digital technology emerged, Vladimir adapted by mastering computer painting, crafting posters, album covers, and commercial illustrations. Despite the commercial demands, his passion for traditional painting remained unwavering.
Artistic Exploration and Global Recognition
The 1990s ushered in a period of extensive travel across Europe. Vladimir painted portraits in the streets of Barcelona, Berlin, and Vienna, where his skill and artistry garnered widespread admiration. During his time in Italy, a chance encounter with a book of Giovanni Boldini’s reproductions reignited his love for classical art, inspiring him to embrace romantic realism.
In 2004, Vladimir’s career reached new heights when he signed a long-term contract with Soho Editions in New York. He began incorporating the influences of John Singer Sargent and Joaquin Sorolla, refining his unique style characterized by vibrant colors, soft textures, and an intimate portrayal of human emotions.
Themes and Artistic Legacy
Vladimir Volegov’s work often centers on women and children, depicted with tenderness, grace, and an ethereal quality. His ability to capture light, mood, and intricate details imbues his paintings with a timeless allure. Whether portraying serene mothers, playful children, or reflective moments, his art resonates with universal themes of love, beauty, and tranquility.
Ventures Beyond Painting
In 2011, Vladimir’s creative pursuits expanded to include 3D doll-making, a venture that showcased his artistic versatility. His dolls, alongside his paintings, gained acclaim at exhibitions in Paris, Barcelona, and New York. Additionally, Vladimir explored multimedia art by creating videos that documented his painting process, complemented by his own musical compositions.
A Curator’s Perspective
Vladimir Volegov’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and resilience. From painting banners as a teenager to becoming a globally celebrated artist, his career embodies the fusion of technical mastery and emotional depth. His works not only celebrate life’s tender moments but also invite viewers into a world where beauty and humanity coexist in harmony.
Work
Featured Work
Experience
1984-1988
PARTICIPANT OF FOUR INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS OF POSTER
1988
WINNER OF SOVIET-POLAND COMPETITION OF POSTER (1 PLACE)
1988
WINNER OF SOVIET-POLAND COMPETITION OF POSTER (1 PLACE)
1991
WINNER OF COMPETITION FOR THE BEST POSTER TO “TSAR’S HUNTING” MOVIE (1 AND 3 PLACE)
1996
WINNER OF COMPETITION “BODY PAINTING” (1 PLACE)
1996
WINNER OF EXHIBITION “INTERCHARM 1996” COMPETITION “IMAGE 2000” (2 PLACE)
1999 -2000
DESIGN OF MAGAZINE “ANDREY” AND CREATION OF NEWSPAPER “ANDREY EXPRESS”
2001
DESIGN OF FOUR PARTS OF CD, VHS AND DVD SERIES “OLD SONGS ABOUT THE MAIN THINGS”
2001-2002
PARTICIPANT OF EXHIBITION OF COSMETIC COMPANY “DEBON”. CREATION PAINTINGS USING MAKE-UP MATERIALS
2003
COLLABORATION WITH “POLYSTAR” COMPANY. CREATION OF MINI-SCULPTURES
2006 – 2007
ART EXPO NY
2007
WINNER OF FAST PAINTING COMPETITION, LLORET DE MAR, SPAIN. 1 PLACE
2011
PUBLICATION SERIE OF VLADIMIR’S PAINTINGS AT CORPORATE CALENDARS OF “MATERIA MEDIC”, MOSCOW, RUSSIA; “COAL MINE RASPADSKAYA”, KEMEROVO, RUSSIA; “77BANK”, TOKYO, JAPAN
2012
ART EXPO NY
2012
PRODUCING OF KITS OF EMBROIDERY WITH IMAGES OF VLADIMIR’S PAINTING; VERACHTERT, BELGIUM
2015
EXHIBITION AT WATERHOUSE GALLERY, SANTA BARBARA, CA, USA
1985
WINNER OF ALL-UNION COMPETITION OF CARICATURES IN “KOMSOMOLSKAYA PRAVDA”
1988
COLLABORATION WITH COMPANIES “MELODY”, “RDM”, “MOROZ RECORDS”, “GENERAL RECORDS”, “REC RECORDS”
1994
CREATION OF SCULPTURE INSTALLATION – PROJECT FOR “REEBOK”
1994
CREATION OF SCULPTURE INSTALLATION – PROJECT FOR “REEBOK”
1996
DEMONSTRATION OF ART “BODY PAINTING” (AUSTRIA)
1998
COLLABORATION WITH MAGAZINE “TV PARK”
2000
PUBLICATION OF CARDS WITH CARICATURES OF FAMOUS RUSSIAN STARS
2001 – 2002
CHIEF ARTIST ON “NEW COMICS” MAGAZINE
2002-2003
COLLABORATION WITH NITOUSSOV PUBLISHING HOUSE. CREATION OF COMICS “SAPPHIRES OF QUEEN EUDOKIYA”
2004
SIGNING OF LONG-TERM CONTRACT WITH SOHO EDITION, NY, USA
2007
START OF LONG-TERM PERMANENT COOPERATION WITH GALERIES BARTOUX, FRANCE
2009
WINNER OF FAST PAINTING COMPETITION, CALDES DE MALAVELLA, SPAIN. 3 PLACE
2012
PARTICIPATING AT DOLL EXPO PARIS 2012
2012
EXHIBITION EXCELLENCE FAIR, S’AGARO, SPAIN
2013
EXHIBITION MILAN INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR
2015
EXHIBITION AT ART SHOW CAGLIARI