Ilya Shenker (1922-2013): On the road, oil on canvas

Work: 105,5 x 76,5 cm

Frame: 115 x 90,5 cm

New York resident Ilya Shenker left Russia over twenty years ago; however, Russia has never left the artist’s mind. As a soldier in World War II, he survived where millions perished. Upon returning to his home town of Odessa, he felt abandoned and alone. He studied Art and Architecture in Odessa but left for America when the opportunity arose when a number of Russian Jewish artists where allowed to emigrate. He settled in New York City, a choice that has forever impacted his oeuvre. Many of his pictures depict New York cityscapes and lifestyle; however, they remain typically Russian. His subject matter often comes from memory and includes the life that he left behind, family, and friends. Drawing upon his Jewish heritage for inspiration, Shenker also paints historical events, such as 'On the Eve of the Assault' in which he portrayed the last night before the destruction of Jerusalem. His use of imagination also applies to the figures in his paintings - fictional characters such as the Spanish literary character Don Quixote make appearances in his work. He has also placed figures such as Rembrandt and Picasso in modern settings: in "Rembrandt Visiting our Family," Shenker sits his most favored artist at his family table, in a tribute to someone he describes as a "peoples artist." On many levels, Shenker saw himself as a people’s artist as well. In fact, he contributed to an exhibition intended to commemorate the six-month anniversary of September 11th, 2001 in New York City. Ilya Shenker has exhibited works all over the World, and held numerous shows in the United States. He also has permanent works in several Russian museums.