Biography
A modern mixmaster of pop and realism, Valentin Popov is well known for his portraits which demonstrate not only his craftsmanship but also his insight into the human psyche. Born in the Ukraine, Popov emigrated to the U.S. at the end of the 1980s. Popov quickly assimilated to Western pop culture and started creating works that reflect mastery in both beauty and technique.
Valentin Popov’s work is in many public collections such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY; De Saisset Museum, Santa Clara; Duke University Museum of Art, North Carolina; Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco; and Iris & Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts, Stanford. In 2016 Valentin Popov was elected as a member of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine, becoming the first American to receive this award.
Thoughts on Djerassi Resident Artist Program
I was the first Soviet artist at the Djerassi Resident Artists Program in 1990. Instead of painting tractors I was “met” and inspired by superheroes. I painted my first portrait there of Carl Djerassi…which was an overture to my life passion…portraits.
After a year and half, I finalized my decision to stay in the United States. That was one of the best decisions I made in my life. Djerassi has had a big impact on me and has beautifully supported my art.
St. Batman blesses Djerassi.
www.popov.com
instagram: @valentin_popov_art