Nikolay Rizhankov
Aurora, Colorado
Artist Nikolay Rizhankov is deeply rooted in the tradition of classical painting, drawing inspiration from the Russian, Dutch, and Flemish masters. "I paint to uphold the eternal beauty of classical fine art; whether capturing a simple still life or an elaborate portrait, I put all my heart into preserving the techniques of the old masters," shares Nikolay. Born in Moscow in 1960, Nikolay spent most of his life in Armenia before earning his Master of Fine Arts from the National University of Art in Moscow in 1989. He relocated to Denver, Colorado, in 2013, where he continues to refine his mastery of landscape, portrait, and still-life painting. His meticulous process begins with hand-stretched, high-quality linen or canvases, primed using traditional methods to ensure longevity and depth. Beyond his own practice, Nikolay also dedicates his expertise to art restoration, applying his deep understanding of historical techniques to preserve and revive aging works.
Artist Statement
I paint to uphold the eternal beauty of classical fine art. Whether I am painting a simple still life or an elaborate portrait, I put all my heart into preserving the techniques of the Old Masters. I use classical Russian, Dutch, and Flemish-style techniques to depict the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. During my years in Armenia, I painted much of its lush countryside: Armenia's striking mountains, forests, and valleys.
Classical painting style and traditional techniques rule in my works. I never use the affordable and popular cotton canvas and acrylic primer, but only the high-quality linen canvas, masterfully stretching them and applying a special primer in the tradition of the old masters. Not only do the paintings created on linen canvas stay true to the test of time, but they also have a smoother and more robust surface. This approach gives my paintings lively energy, warmth, and mystery.
I mainly work with oil paints and pastels, putting technique above all so that the natural beauty of my subject comes across in the most pure form. I also have a good feeling for other styles of painting which allows me to work on restorations.
Classical painting style and traditional techniques rule in my works. I never use the affordable and popular cotton canvas and acrylic primer, but only the high-quality linen canvas, masterfully stretching them and applying a special primer in the tradition of the old masters. Not only do the paintings created on linen canvas stay true to the test of time, but they also have a smoother and more robust surface. This approach gives my paintings lively energy, warmth, and mystery.
I mainly work with oil paints and pastels, putting technique above all so that the natural beauty of my subject comes across in the most pure form. I also have a good feeling for other styles of painting which allows me to work on restorations.
Artist Background
Moscow State University
Master of Fine Arts, 1986