Boris Vladimirski

Who was Boris Vladimirski?

Boris Eremeevich Vladimirski, was a Soviet painter of the Socialist Realism school.

Vladimirski was born in Kiev, Ukraine. He began his artistic studies at age 10, later attending the Kiev Art College. He exhibited his first painting in 1906.

As an official Soviet artist, his work was well received and widely exhibited. His works were aimed at exemplifying the work ethic of the Soviet people; they were displayed in many homes and federal buildings. He is also known for his paintings of prominent public officials.

However, his controversial Black Ravens painting, which depicts Soviet secret police that came at night to disappear people, was regarded as a piece that transcended the values of Socialist Realism. Surprisingly, the painting managed to pass by censorship committees, and was also displayed throughout the country.