April 2013

Vista Studios in Columbia, SC, Offers Works by Nikolai Oskolkov

Vista Studios in Columbia, SC, will present NikO Art Show 2013, an exhibit of paintings and drawings by local fine artist and musician Nikolai Oskolkov, on view in Gallery 80808, from Apr. 5 - 16, 2013. A reception will be held on Apr. 5, starting at 5pm. NikO and others will perform on various musical instruments to spice up the night!

NikO presents many themes that reflects on the interrelation among history, spirituality, and surrounding existence. the show will feature a unique collaboration with NikO’s father Konstantin Oskolkov’s experiments with “rustic” framing of pagan and nature themed paintings.

Oskolkov presents paintings and drawings that flirt with convention by depicting polemical worldviews that do not necessarily conform to any particular audience. His individual identity is extensively defined by art that reflects on the interrelation among history, spirituality, and the surrounding existence. His work further expresses experimentation with imagination, symbolism, and various social values in order to portray an alternative idealistic world. As Oskolkov explores diverse themes, he strives to constantly develop his technical abilities.

Often with a sense of irony, Oskolkov conveys optimism by celebrating forgotten legends, dwelling on overlooked philosophies, and envisioning Utopian cultural conditions.

Nikolai Konstantinovich Oskolkov was born in 1984 in Moscow. The son of a mathematics professor and a music teacher, he was introduced to art at an early age. He moved to the West in 1992. After a year in Canada, Oskolkov settled in South Carolina, which has been his residence ever since. Besides having lived in several countries, he has travelled around the world, from the Czech Republic and Sweden to Jamaica and Italy.

In 1995, Oskolkov had his first solo exhibit in elementary school. He drew obsessively during classes, often being disciplined for distraction. However, art teachers noted that Oskolkov always desired to tackle challenging projects. He decided on a career in fine art in high school, seeing art as a constant companion through all of his childhood interests.

At the University of South Carolina, Oskolkov exhibited in annual student shows and received top awards and scholarships for his work. He was featured in November 2005 as one of the first three representatives of the USC Magellan Scholarship Program at the grand opening of the Office of Undergraduate Research.

After college, Oskolkov learned about the art trade working at City Art, one of Columbia’s leading specialty art stores and galleries. Every year, he orchestrates solo exhibits and collaborations. Being an accomplished musician, Oskolkov also plays piano and the Russian balalaika at his shows. He has work in many private collections in the US and abroad.

For further information check our SC Commercial Gallery listings, call the Studios at 803/252-6143 or visit (www.vistastudios80808.com).

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