In 2017, I had the pleasure of attending the Stockholm Antique and Art Fair, where I had the opportunity to meet the renowned artist Vladimir Valegov. A decade had passed since our first encounter, and it was evident that Vladimir’s journey in the art world had reached new heights.
For Halinka Rosa from Vladimir Valegov
The exhibition and demonstration show at the fair showcased Vladimir’s exceptional talent, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. His artworks, displayed alongside the offerings of Gallery Melefors, stood out as a testament to his unique artistic vision and mastery of the craft.
During our brief conversation, Vladimir shared insights into his artistic process and the integral role his wife, Ekaterina, played in supporting his endeavors. Their collaboration was not just a personal partnership but a creative one, reflecting the seamless integration of art into their lives.
Ekatarina, a wife of Vladimir Valegov, his Muse
Over the past decade, Vladimir Valegov has achieved significant acclaim, with his fame transcending borders. His engaging presence on YouTube has allowed art enthusiasts to connect with him on a more personal level. The platform became a space not only for showcasing his artistic techniques but also for fostering a community of followers who appreciate his work.
A notable development in Vladimir’s journey has been his move to Spain, where he now operates his art business. The picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture of Spain have undoubtedly influenced his artistic expression. The transition to a new environment has added a fresh dimension to his work, evident in the evolution of his style and themes.
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Vladimir’s success is not only a result of his artistic prowess but also a testament to his adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges. His dedication to the craft has been a driving force behind his continued growth and recognition in the art world.
Interview with Vladimir Valegov:
Halina Rosa: Vladimir, it’s a pleasure to have you here. Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us about your early years and how you discovered your passion for painting?
Vladimir Valegov: Thank you for having me. My journey into the world of art began in Khabarovsk, where I learned computer painting at a young age. My mother’s work with vinyl and CD albums exposed me to the world of visual arts. Despite the frequent relocations, my love for painting never waned. In school, my teachers recognized my talent and I earned my first money drawing slogans for advertising.
Halina Rosa: That’s fascinating. How did your artistic journey evolve during your time in Krivoi Rog and later at Lvov Institute of Printing Art?
Vladimir Valegov: In Krivoy Rog, I entered an art school and discovered classical painters like Ilya Repin and Valentin Serov. This exposure fueled my passion for art. In 1980, I joined the School of Graphics at Lvov Institute of Printing Art, where I painted an illustration for the novel “The Young Guard” during the entrance exam. Despite not excelling in other exams, I was unanimously admitted based on my artwork.
Halina Rosa: Moving forward to 1988 when you moved to Moscow, can you tell us about your early experiences and how you established contacts with publishing houses and record companies?
Vladimir Valegov: Moving to Moscow was a pivotal moment for my artistic career. I started by painting portraits in Arbat while actively seeking work. This period marked my initial contacts with publishing houses, advertising, and record companies. The emergence of digital technologies further opened up opportunities for my artistic expression.
Halina Rosa: Your journey took an international turn with exhibitions and travels across Europe. Can you share some highlights from that period?
Vladimir Valegov: Indeed, my travels in Europe, especially in cities like Barcelona, Berlin, and Vienna, exposed me to diverse artistic influences. In 1992, during a summer painting contract in Gardaland, Italy, I stumbled upon a book with Giovanni Boldini’s reproductions, which greatly inspired me. The impressionist originals at the Musée d’Orsay further shaped my artistic direction.
Halina Rosa: The transition to romantic realism and your collaboration with Soho Editions in 2004 marked a significant chapter. Can you elaborate on this period?
Vladimir Valegov: Discovering artists like John Singer Sargent and Joaquin Sorolla led me to adopt the style of romantic realism. In 2004, I signed a long-term contract with Soho Editions in New York, which provided a platform for my artistic endeavors. This period also saw my move to Spain in 2006, where my wife Ekaterina and I started a new chapter with the birth of our son Anton.
Halina Rosa: Your venture into 3D dolls and collaborations with galleries worldwide showcase a diverse artistic portfolio. How did these experiences contribute to your artistic growth?
Vladimir Valegov: The idea of creating 3D dolls emerged during a 3D project in 2011. Exhibitions in Paris, Barcelona, and New York brought success not only to my paintings but also to the 3D dolls. These experiences allowed me to explore different dimensions of artistic expression while continuing to receive private orders for portraits.
Halina Rosa: Since 2015, you’ve been conducting video tutorials in figurative oil painting. How has this interaction with your followers influenced your approach to art?
Vladimir Valegov: Conducting video tutorials has been a rewarding experience. It provides a platform to share my techniques and connect with a global audience. The persistent requests from my followers led to the creation of a tutorial DVD, further extending the reach of my artistic knowledge.
Halina Rosa: Looking back at your extensive career, what advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Vladimir Valegov: My advice to aspiring artists would be to never cease exploring, learning, and expressing themselves. Embrace diverse influences, travel, and let your passion guide you. And most importantly, stay true to your unique artistic voice.
Halina Rosa: Thank you, Vladimir, for sharing your incredible journey and insights with us. We wish you continued success in your artistic endeavors.
Vladimir Valegov: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
02.02.2024 Stockholm
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