Taking classical ealism to the max with Genya Gritchin
Surfing the internet I came across the art of Genya Gritchin
While browsing the internet, I stumbled upon the artwork of Genya Gritchin, a Russian-born painter now living in Italy. One painting, in particular, captured my attention, drawing me in instantly. I was completely entranced.
Classical Influences in Gritchin’s Work
Gritchin’s painting immediately evokes the grandeur of Renaissance masters and the timeless principles of classical art. The composition tells a story, and I found myself drawn in, deciphering the narrative it conveyed. His work reminded me of Andrea del Sarto and even Da Vinci, yet it also carries a distinctly modern sensibility, much like the refined neoclassical style of the 18th century. There’s a precision in the modeling that echoes the meticulous technique of Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, blending the past with a contemporary edge.
Intrigued by these artistic parallels, I began researching more about Genya Gritchin, as I knew little about him. To my fascination, I discovered that these very artists—Veronese, Da Vinci, and Andrea del Sarto—are among Gritchin’s greatest inspirations.
In his own words, Gritchin states:
“I am driven by classical art and would love to follow in the footsteps of the beloved artists from the past like Veronese, Da Vinci, and Andrea del Sarto. I admire art that is grounded in the canons of ideal forms and divine proportions. I am particularly drawn to these artistic traditions, as seen in the works of David and Ingres.”
His dedication to classical ideals, merged with a contemporary vision, makes his art both timeless and deeply engaging.
Gritchin’s Background
Genya Gritchin is a classically trained painter, born in 1966 in the Soviet Union. His artistic journey began remarkably early—at just six years old, he studied the traditional Russian craft of Palekh, mastering the intricate art of painting lacquer boxes and wooden cutting boards. By the age of ten, he was enrolled in a classical art school, and by twenty, he was honing his skills at the prestigious Surikov Fine Arts Institute in Moscow, where he earned a master’s degree in art. Today, Gritchin is based in Umbria, Italy, where he continues to refine his craft and explore the timeless principles of classical art.
A firm believer in the cyclical nature of art history, Gritchin sees our current era as both an end and a new beginning—one that signals a return to canonic art, rooted in the traditions of the Old Masters. His work embraces this philosophy, reviving classical ideals while infusing them with a fresh, contemporary perspective.
« My art is based on primordial myths, sun, sky, and humans. The essence of everything is a myth and what will remain of us will be precisely this: a myth. » Genya Gritchin
Visit Genya Gritchin’s website
Do you have a favorite artist, whether contemporary or from the past?
Are you drawn to the great masters of the 16th century, or do you admire the refined elegance of 18th-century neoclassical painters? Perhaps you have a modern favorite whose work speaks to you. Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear which artists inspire you!
What a pleasant surprise to stumble upon such a wonderful article about my husband! Thank you Melissa.