Q: What is “Modern Expressionism”?
A: According to the online encyclopedia, www.wikipedia.org:
“Modern Expressionism is a post-expressionistic artistic style in which the artist creates his or her artwork by merging images and/or objects with emotions. This is accomplished through the use of both literal and abstract emphasis on color, texture, obscured subject matter, distortion, unnatural depth, exaggeration and modified surrounding imagery.
Modern Expressionism feeds off of the roots of Expressionism, German Expressionism and Abstract Expressionism but combines them with present-day media and subject matter.”
Q: What is a giclée?
A: A giclée (pronounced zhee-clay) refers to both a category of collectible fine art similar to lithographs and serigraphs, as well as a type of digitally created fine art print. However, not all digital prints are giclées-only prints that adhere to strict printmaking standards can be called a giclée.
The word "giclée" dates back to 1989 and is a French term roughly meaning "spray or squirt" which refers to the digital printing process. During printing, millions of microscopic droplets of ink per second are applied to the print media. The best giclée printers provide 1,800 dpi resolution and blend as many as eight colors of ink.
A giclée is a high-end fine art print often recognized as the next best thing to owning the original. Giclées can be found on display in the world's finest museums and art galleries, including:
Metropolitan Museum, New York
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Corcoran Gallery, Washington D.C.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
The British Museum
All giclées produced by Lysakov Art Company, Inc. are printed digitally on UV-resistant, museum-quality archival canvas using the highest-quality inkjet systems and hand-signed by the artist.
Q: Why do many of Lysakov’s figures feature only one eye?
A: This unusual composition is not haphazard. Rather, it is with careful study and deliberation that Lysakov applies this technique. While examining Michelangelo’s masterful artwork in the Sistine Chapel, Lysakov observed that many of the human figures were painted in profile, revealing only one eye. Upon further contemplation, Lysakov realized that a single eye can be quite important. When taking a photograph, aiming a gun or looking through a kaleidoscope, one eye takes dominance and brings objects into focus. The intensity of this focus is what Lysakov wants to remind the viewer of; the works look out to the viewer but also to the singular philosophical intention of the artist.
Q: Some of Lysakov’s paintings are very dark and seem almost ominous. Why is this?
A: Many of Lysakov’s works address the tumultuous and corrupt times of the Soviet Union’s communist society. He was often restrained and even punished for his expression of modern art. Lysakov now challenges you to conquer your fear – paintings should not be feared. “They merely depict life,” he says. “Sometimes the scariest things in life are the most trivial ones.”
Q: Lysakov’s paintings are categorized by “motifs.” What is a motif?
A: A motif is a collection of works based on thematic elements, colors or figures. Lysakov’s paintings typically correspond to one of these eight motifs: Biblical, Carnival, Contemplation, Close Ones, Melodies, Traditional, Viridian Night, and Women.
Q: Victor Lysakov is a renowned Russian artist overseas, but is virtually unknown in the United States. Can you tell me about his international accomplishments?
A: Lysakov recognized his artistic ability at the young age of six, but it wasn’t until several decades later that he was able to professionally pursue his craft. In the last 20 years, Lysakov has participated in several prestigious solo and main exhibitions in Russia, Poland, Germany, Sweden, Austria, France and Italy. In 1991, Lysakov was bestowed “One of the Best European Artists” by the International Project Kunst Europa. His art resides in numerous private collections around the world.
Q: When do you plan to release the other images shown on your website?
A: In 2008, Lysakov Art Company, Inc. will introduce additional images to the collection. At this time, the number of images and image titles are yet to be determined. In the meantime, we’d love to hear about your favorite images, and we’ll take your feedback into consideration.
Q: Are Lysakov originals for sale?
A: Only a select number of originals are for sale and will be made available for a limited time. If you are interested in a private viewing, please contact Lysakov Art Company, Inc. at (831) 375-7100.
Q: Where does Victor Lysakov live?
A: He resides in his homeland of Moscow, Russia with his wife of over 30 years. Lysakov does hold a Visa and visits the United States frequently for special events, artist signings and nationwide tours.