SAN MARCOS ART LEAGUE
Russian artist shares story of freedom at Art Center
Igor Babkin fled his home country of Russia in 2023. Thursday, the San Marcos Art League will showcase his captivating oil paintings and digital portraits, reflecting a rich tapestry of experiences and dark postmodernism style.
Babkin’s formal education began at an art school in Magadan, Russia, where he honed his skills from 2005 to 2009. After a period of exploration with pencil portraits and watercolor, Igor embraced oil painting in 2015, further refining his craft. His commitment to art led him to work as an advertisement designer from 2012 to 2017, while continuously expanding his artistic abilities.
In 2017, Babkin established the online studio Shedevr Life, which garnered international attention through Instagram. This platform allowed him to collaborate with photographers and models, creating unique paintings that now adorn collections in Germany, France and the UK. Despite his growing success, Babkin faced significant challenges, including the need to flee Russia in 2023 due to the persecution of creative people who do not support the current Russia's government. Babkin was forced to flee to the United States in order to be able to continue pursuing his creative path.
Above, a portion of “Love” by Igor Babkin, Oil on Canvas – Depicts an image of a woman with red, blue and yellow colors on her lips. Right, a portion of “The Empty Nest” by Igor Babkin, Oil on Canvas – Depicts an image of a woman with a tree growing out of her back. Photos courtesy of San Marcos Art League
Babkin’s resilience and dedication to his art have brought him to the United States, where he continues to share his work with new audiences. His paintings can be viewed at Art on 12 in Wimberley and during the Wimberley Valley Winery Art Bazaars held monthly. He will be speaking about his artistic journey and experiences at the San Marcos Art League at the Thursday event on Sept. 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to engage with Babkin’s work in a personal setting. Attendees will have the chance to view a curated selection of his oil paintings and digital portraits, gaining insight into the artist's creative process and the stories behind his works.
Admission is free. For more details, visit artleaguesmtx.org.
Image of artist Igor Babkin on a rooftop. Photo courtesy of San Marcos Art League
