DIMITRY SEMAKOV

     Dimitri Semakov is a truly international artist. Although a native of Moscow, Semakov selects not to refer to any specific national or political condition in his works. He aspires always to rise above distinctions of culture, race, politics, and religion, creating a body of work which is acceptable to a universal community.

     Semakov's work is a distinguished meditation inspired by music, dance, classical literature and human emotion. Semakov incorporates his response to great classical art forms with bold and forceful paintings embodying grace, fluidity, and magic. His "Ballet Series," for example, is informed with a strength and tenderness that provides a perfect analog for the magnificence of the classical dance world. The inspiration never overshadows the final result however: each painting becomes a symphony of abstract and figurative images, compelled by the color into a unified whole, creating a work of art whose beauty increases with repeated viewings. With a concerted collection of extraordinary colors and bravura brushwork, Semakov constructs a world that is both beautiful and provocative.

     Semakov uses the motif of the figure to describe states of being which are universal and transcend all cultural barriers. Through an exploration of the profound and deeply rooted emotions that are the basis of our humanity, Semakov creates visual metaphors for the various states of being that give our lives their color and substance. His figures emerge from a fluid mass, developing gestures and attitudes that are searingly beautiful.

     There is never a hint of menace, violence, or even real despair in his work, a point which contributes to his extraordinary appeal. When exploring themes such as "Age of Fire," "Collision with Civilization," and "Gates," he reveals a tenderness, compassion and hopefulness which is remarkable for his age and life experience.

- Dr. Ronald K. Parker
New York, 1993