Born on January 21, 1962, in Plungė, Lithuania, Vladimiras Nikonovas now resides and creates in Šėta, within the Kėdainiai district. A self-taught artist, Nikonovas has immersed himself in multiple artistic disciplines, such as photography, painting, and sculpture. He is especially recognized for his inventive approach to incorporating unconventional materials into his pieces.
His artistic process is characterized by ongoing experimentation and a devotion to daily creative exploration. By integrating elements from mechanical devices and everyday objects, Nikonovas expertly utilizes essential artistic concepts like form, color, and composition. With these atypical materials, he brings to life imaginative works depicting both real and mythical entities.
Every sculpture or assemblage by Nikonovas is crafted with exceptional care, frequently undergoing years of shaping and sanding before being finalized. These creations are displayed on distinctive surfaces—boards or slabs—that further emphasize their uniqueness. The finished artworks are notable for their originality and resourceful repurposing of ordinary materials.
Vladimiras Nikonovas has actively participated in the art world since 1989, both within Lithuania and internationally. He has taken part in several artistic projects, including seven iterations of the "Homo ludens" art forum, where his sculptures have become significant components of Jonava’s cityscape. In addition, his solo exhibitions have been presented domestically and abroad, solidifying his reputation as an innovative artist in contemporary experimental art.
About this artwork+
This painting by Vladimiras Nikonovas, titled "We can fly," actually features a unique artwork structured like a robot. The robot is assembled from various metallic pieces. These pieces include what looks like a round watch face for the head, complete with dials that resemble eyes and a mount that suggests a nose. Its body and limbs are made from flat, curved metal components, suggesting wings or arms. The artwork is set against a dark, circular background that looks like a large metal plate, enhancing its industrial vibe. Vladimiras Nikonovas's style in this piece is inventive and mechanical. The use of actual mechanical parts and their assembly into a humanoid form plays with themes of technology and art. This robot, contained within the boundaries of a simple yet elegant plate, evokes a sense of whimsy and creativity, all while maintaining a sleek, metallic aesthetic that is visually striking. The choice of materials and the method of combining them show Nikonovas's skill in transforming everyday objects into compelling pieces of art.
