As the winner of your category in the 2003 International Art Contest, being selected by such a diverse group of artists from all around the world, how do you feel?

I feel great; this is a great honor to be chosen by such a wide international audience.

Please describe your current works and any plans for forthcoming exhibits.

Currently I am working on some portrait commissions and I am exhibiting my most recent works in Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. I’ve been fortunate to achieve some success in creating my own style in the world of art, which is known as Philosophical and Metaphysical Realism. The fundamental principle of this style is light. Everything comes from the light and everything dissolves into the light again. I try to carry this idea into my paintings, such as Le Louvre, Roses, Serenity, and many other works.
I am planning on exhibiting my new work at the Salon D’Automne this fall in Paris, France.

If any, in what ways have you seen changes in attitudes towards "art"?

Recently I have noticed an increase of interest in realist painting. Hopefully art will again be perceived as a serious human quest, rather then purely entertainment.

Do you think that the fine artist will survive as technology replaces our skills?

Yes, I certainly think so. I feel that technology aids the artist, not limits him. Contemporary tools such as camera’s, computers, etc., if used properly can be of a great help for the artist. But all those are only tools and without the deep knowledge and skills all those tools will be worthless. So I don’t think that technology can ever replace the human soul.

What advice could you give to those embarking upon a career as an artist?

They should know that this is a very long and difficult path, sometimes very painful and stressful. But at the same time it can be a liberating, joyous, and enlightening experience. They should also know that talent without hard work will never flourish fully. I would say to those who choose art as their career to be patient and dedicated.

Why did you enter this contest and what decided your selection for entry?

I liked the idea of being exposed on the Art Dept website, which has a good design and great accessibility. Le Louvre was one of my most recent large-scale canvases, it shows the most recent achievements in my style, and it has met great reviews internationally.

Is there anything about being an artist that you do not like?

Of course there are many things. One of the most troubling aspects of being an artist is that people often judge the artwork not based on quality but on the market, on the brand, on the name. This kind of judgment leaves many great artists unknown and it is greatly damaging to the artist and to the art, and to humanity as a whole.

Would you sell your most favorite artwork, or keep it?

My works are made to be seen by other people. I would rather share my work with those who appreciate it then to keep it for myself.

How important was education and training to you?

Very important. It is fundamental for artists to have a profound professional education. An artist must know a lot of things to be able to express ideas and feelings.

If you were invited overseas to exhibit, where would you like that to be?

I prefer to exhibit anywhere where the conditions of the exhibition are most favorable.

Do you recommend use of the Internet for an artist's publicity?

Yes, the internet is a valuable tool. It is a great way to exhibit worldwide. In my case it gives me great exposure. Many people daily visit my sites. The internet can boost an artist’s career and give him valuable feedback from galleries, dealers, and visitors.

How can the Internet be made better for working artists?

I think artists are just beginning to realize the value of the internet. The internet is still somewhat young and there are still many possibilities out there. I think working artists should take the advantage of this resource as much as they can, it just might open new horizons and opportunities.

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