Tree of Life Painting

Growing up in a very creative and ever-busy family has significantly affected my life style. As a teenager while learning various creative skills from different members of our family, my father was my greatest inspiration in arts and later the art teacher for five years at the local Art School in Petrozavodsk, Russia. Under his guidance I practiced painting, drawing, composition, sculpture and the history of arts. My Russian background has naturally influenced my artistic style. A significant part of my painting experience was working with miniature paintings common in the traditional Russian folklore. I should say that the extensive practice of detailed painting resulted in my current painting technique. While working on either small or large canvas I like to bring on the tiniest details that the viewers always manage to pick and wonder. I imagine anthropomorphic characters whether animals or birds, fish or plants and flowers. Everything they do or busy with has a purpose to it; every small detail has a meaning. Most often they are on the go somewhere and that probably explains my own love for travel. My Russian background never escapes to show itself and I create a fusion with Australian flora and fauna since Australia has become my second home. I find that an idea for a painting carries most significant importance. Inspirations come from anywhere, imagination is the key, and a touch of humour is an absolute must.