Vladimir Kush

While it's still July (and thus time for art and artists), I'd like to introduce you to Vladimir Kush, a Russian surrealist. Or, as he refers to himself, a metaphorical realist. He paints, mostly with oils, and sculpts based on those paintings. He's been compared to both Hieronymus Bosch and Salvador Dali. And maybe he's my hero, a little.

"To the Safe Haven"

Vladimir attended art school from a young age, and when conscripted by the army at 18, spent most of his term painting propaganda murals. When he left military service, he studied at the Surikov Moscow Art Institute and spent several years in his native city before emigrating to These United States. To enrich us all with his mind-boggling art.

"City by the Sea"

Many of his pieces involve the sea, and if not the sea, then another wide open space. I've noticed he also likes butterflies rather a lot. Good thing, because I like them, too.

"Book of Books"

If you'd like to see more of his work, you can go here or here. Or maybe even his actual website. I recommend reading his credo.

- Genny