Viktor ShvaikoFor a detailed view and pricing information, click on a title. About Viktor Shvaiko:Viktor Shvaiko's impressionistic style uses pallette and brush techniques to capture European cafes and intimate street scenes. The beauty of his work alone would be sufficient explanation for his appeal; however, it is apparent to even the most casual observer that his meticulously crafted paintings reach us on many more levels. Born in Altai, one of Russia's most remote towns, Viktor Shvaiko grew up surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness. His natural inclination for fine arts and his strong urge to share his vision of the world around him ultimately led him to the Novoaltaisk Artistic School, one of the finest schools for the arts in the former Soviet Union. Four years of strenuous study enabled Shvaiko, a diligent student, to acquire the skills and education of a true artist. Working with his teacher, Ilbek Khairoullinov, Shvaiko learned a strict regimen of drawing, an intricate technique of using colors, and the influence of the 19th century Russian artist Karl Brynllow that brought him closer to a traditional academic style of painting. Having attained technical excellence in the manner of these traditional influences, the artist now possessed the tools with which to express his feelings to the world. At this point, Shvaiko's main focus became the beautiful Altai landscapes. After his family moved to Transkarpathia, the mountainous western portion of Ukraine, Viktor became enchanted with the breathtaking beauty of the countryside. Gaining greater exposure as he continued to paint, Shvaiko was invited to show in two one-person expositions in Moukachevo in 1990 and a group exhibition in Hungary in 1991. However, he chafed under the stifling effect of the lingering Russian bureaucracy on the careers of young artists; unable to obtain a visa to a Western country, Shvaiko was allowed to travel to Yugoslavia.  In the confusion of the civil war, Shvaiko fled to Italy with his paintings strapped to his back, often encountering gunfire from roving bands of militia. Arriving in Italy virtually penniless, he survived by selling his paintings on the streets of Rome, where he managed to build a following for himself. Saving his money, he eventually returned to a more liberal Russia, and was able to obtain passage to America. Arriving in New York with little money and less English, Shvaiko was again able to survive by selling his work. It was in the United States that he developed his penchant for painting the little cafes and other intimate places that have becom the trademark of his work today. Viktor Shvaiko's enticing mix of beauty and mystery has drawn the interest and admiration of collectors from around the world.    |
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