Igor Galanin (1937 - 2024)

Igor Galanin was a celebrated surrealist artist born in 1937 in Moscow, Russia. In his early years, he painted stage sets for the Moscow Ballet Theater while also illustrating children's books. Over his career in Moscow, he regularly held exhibitions and illustrated more than 30 children's books. These illustrated books remain in print to this day, both in Russia and France.

 

At the age of 35, Galanin immigrated to Rome, Italy, where he held his first solo exhibition as a painter. He later collaborated with New York-based publisher Macmillan and eventually moved to the United States. His first solo exhibition in the U.S., held in Houston, Texas, was a tremendous success. From then on, he continued to present his works consistently through galleries and museums around the world.

While Galanin primarily focused on illustration during his time in Russia, he was also deeply passionate about sculpture. However, after relocating to New York, the limitations of space and materials naturally led him to concentrate on painting. His artworks are known for their dreamlike and whimsical quality, combining simplicity in the background with intricate details and a warm sense of humor. He excelled in harmonizing still objects and living beings within a single frame, often juxtaposing dark and bright colors to striking effect.

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Galanin employed brushes for detailed touches but used rollers for broader gradients and backgrounds, which gave his paintings a distinctive texture. This unique technique set his work apart from others. His creations were also reproduced as serigraphy prints, using layers of silk screens to achieve the soft flow of colors that defined his style. Additionally, his bronze animal sculptures, characterized by smooth curves and simple lines, appear as if they have leaped straight out of a fairy tale.

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In the last five years of his life, Galanin remained prolific, working on a new series centered on bears. However, in the winter of 2024, at the age of 87, he passed away after a fall at his home in Connecticut, from which he could not recover. His warm and enchanting works will continue to captivate audiences and remain cherished for generations.

He is survived by his daughter, Natalia Galanin, who also served as his studio manager. Deepest condolences are extended to his family and close friends.