Shura Petrov

Shura Petrov is a tremendous Russian painter whose credentials include studying at the highly regarded Serov School and the Institute of Theater, Cinematography, and Music, both located in St. Petersburg, Russia. His paintings having been displayed in galleries all over Europe and the U.S., Petrov has become an internationally acclaimed artist. Along with museums exhibits in Russia, his work is also found in many renowned private collections.

His style exhibits precision and an attention to detail that renders images so real and so fantastical at the same time that the viewer encounters both confusion and wonder. His works embody an enigmatic dream world, which beckon to the viewer. The subjects of his paintings partake in dramatic scenes and challenge the viewer to discover the meaning behind the mysterious actions of the figures. These actions range from magical to bizarre, sometimes representing grotesque interactions and scenarios of human existence. Drawing on his knowledge of art history, history, and theatrical design, Petrov is a master of taking mythological and biblical subjects and placing them in contemporary settings and contexts.

Petrov has developed an innovative and complex style, drawing from the old masters as while at the same time referencing the influence of his contemporaries. His creations include incredible color and light - a sense that allows him to depict such sensitivity and understanding for his subjects that they seem to glow as showered in moonbeams.

Selected Exhibitions:

2000-present Grant Gallery, New York, NY

1999 Davidson Galleries, Seattle, WA

Olga Dollar, San Francisco, CA

Russian Exhibition, Portland Community College

1998 Mimi Ferzt Gallery, New York, NY

Chetwynd Stapylton Gallery, Portland, OR

1997 Miami Art Fair, Mimi Ferzt Gallery, Miami, FL

Davidson Galleries, Seattle, WA

Mimi Ferzt Gallery, New York, NY

1996 Davidson Galleries, Seattle, WA

Kismet Gallery, San Jose, CA