Nickolai Gurgeiff - Andrey Shavikin

I was born in April 1966. I knew how to hold a pencil earlier than I could hold a spoon. I drew everywhere and on everything, on walls, in books etc. until l I found out that paper is the most suitable method. I tried to draw everything I saw around myself. When I grew up I wanted to learn about drawing more. My wish coincided with my parents' wish – I was sent to the children’s drawing school. This way I continued increasing my knowledge about painting.

In 1985 I graduated from the Art College, got the secondary education. Also I got the diploma of the lacquer miniature painter. For four years attending the Art College I studied icon painting, the old ancient Russian crafts’ traditions and learned the modern schools of Palekh, Mstera, Kholui, Khokhloma etc.

Creative development was interrupted by military service. Coming back from the army I began working with acquired profession. Creative work became a style of life for me.

I worked at Leningrad (Saint-Petersburg) Association of the Craft Trades. I took part in many fairs and auctions. I began to make custom orders. My specialization was painting boxes, icons and nesting doll, it is my occupation now.

I always try to expend (put) my joyful attitude to the life in my works. I hope you will see it watching them.how to hold a spoon. I drew everywhere and on everything, on walls, in books etc.