Maria Safronova
/Born 1979/
Maria Safronova stands as a notable figure in the Russian art scene, distinguished by her recognizable style and profound thematic explorations. Having completed her education at the Surikov Moscow State Academic Art Institute, Joseph Bakstein Institute of Contemporary Art, and the "Free Workshops" school, she earned a scholarship from the Ministry of Culture of Russia, became a finalist for the Kandinsky Prize in 2012, and received the Sergei Kuryokhin Award for "Best Visual Artwork" in 2015. Acknowledgments also include a Commemorative Certificate from the Patriarch for her monumental frescoes in churches and a diploma from the Academy of Arts.
One of Safronova's initial significant works involved fresco painting at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in New York, arising from an invitation by her mentor. However, over time, she felt the need to express her true feelings through more accessible means, prompting her to seek knowledge at the Institute of Contemporary Art Issues. This experience allowed her to gain a deeper understanding of the contemporary art system and establish a stronger connection with the audience.
Recognized in the Top 100 Artists of Russia by InArt and in the Russian Investment Art Rating 49ART in 2017 and 2018, Maria Safronova continues to solidify her position in the global art scene. Her unique approach to depicting the real world, and capturing unforgettable moments, infuses her works with a surrealistic touch. Key features of her style include graphical interpretations of forms, a preference for everyday genres, and an interest in the mundane without idealization.
Whether on wooden panels or canvas, Maria Safronova's artworks are marked by an emotional atmosphere, thoughtful composition, and distinct stylistic expression. These art pieces are well-represented in renowned museums and galleries, including the Tretyakov Gallery, the Russian Museum, the Central House of Artists, and the Moscow Museum of Modern Art. Private collections both in Russia and abroad also feature Safronova's works. Her art graces prestigious institutions such as the Moscow Museum of Contemporary Art, the Sergey Kuryokhin Contemporary Art Center, the Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art in St. Petersburg, and the Museum of Women and Children in China, Beijing.