RUSSIA'S CHARM OFFENSIVE WITH ART

PEOPLE’S Artist of Russia and Academician of the Russian Academy of Arts Nikas Safronov had clearly made art to please.

- PANKIL JHAJHRIA

In Delhi, for the launch of his exhibition ‘Dream Vision’, 100 of Safronov’s finest works — many specifically created for an Indian audience such as an elephant in Russian robe or Goddess Lakshmi sitting between two bejewelled elephants — is spread across eight halls over two floors of the Lalit Kala Akademi.Safronov is known for his unusual portraits in his distinctive style. He has drawn the Russian President Vladimir Putin dressed in the style of [King of France] Francis I (which, however has not been included in this exhibition) and American actor Marilyn Monroe dressed in Elizabethan-era fashion, posed against the Hollywood sign. Safronov told TMS that his focus is mainly on capturing the character, psychology, and inner world of his subjects rather than just their outward appearance. Sometimes, symbolism helps achieve this sense of deeper portrayal, he adds. “Whether it’s a head of state who has brought major changes to their country or an ordinary person who achieved something extraordinary. What attracts me most is the story, not the status,” he says.

Early inspirations