The Impressionist art movement dominated 20th-century painting in Russia, with many bright representatives with notable styles found in the Russian cultural legacy. One of the established artists who left a trace in the Russian art of the past century is Vasiliy Belikov. Working predominantly in Penza, Belikov managed to create many unique depictions of rural Russian life and natural beauty.
Vasiliy Belikov’s Life and Early Career
Vasiliy Belikov was born in the small village of Svishchevka in the Tambov region. From 1938 to 1941, he attended the Astrakhan Art School. After graduation, Belikov became a sailor in the Russian Navy where he served from 1941 to 1947, participating in the military activities of World War II. In 1947, he again decided to pursue art and enrolled in the Penza Art School where he spent three years.
The formal education in art enabled Vasiliy Belikov to enter the art industry as a professional. In 1950, he was employed as an artist in the Penza branch of the Art Fund of the USSR. In 1962, Belikov developed tuberculosis and struggled with the disease for several years but returned to painting after recovery. In 1975, he was awarded an honorable status as a member of the Artists’ Union of the USSR.
Creative Focus of Vasiliy Belikov
Belikov dedicated his art to landscape painting, which represents the dominant portion of his work. A few examples of still life and self-portrait are also among his artistic legacy. According to the artist, all of his paintings included autobiographical motifs and served as a unique tool for his self-expression and manifestation of his worldview.
Belikov viewed his direct contact with nature as an examination and further depiction of human personality and an emotional realization of his ideas. The painter found it hard to talk about his works because he preferred the visual language of nature to the language of words. This was the reason why he loved working in the open nature and creating his landscapes in direct unity with serene natural locations.
Where Can You Explore Belikov’s Art?
At present, the artist’s works are on display at the Penza Regional Art Gallery and in many private collections in Russia and abroad. One can also encounter his paintings at auctions worldwide, including in the USA where Vasiliy Belikov’s art enjoys broad popularity. Interested collectors can contact the Belikov family who possesses a wide collection of the artist’s works at belservas@mail.ru.
