PixelSteam is pleased to introduce Russian Vector Artist: Alex Oglushevi
Thank you Alex for this interview today. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and where you live?
I live in Magnitogorsk, it was named for the Magnitnaya mountain that was almost pure iron, a geological anomaly. It is the second largest city in Russia. I work as a machinist, vector painting is my hobby.
How did you get started as a designer and artist?
I have loved drawing loved since childhood and explored all paint media watercolor, oil and pencil. I attended Art School but did not finish as it closed. I then switched to the crafts of woodwork, because after graduation I lived and worked in the taiga in the north edge of the Sverdlovsk region. In 2000 I bought my first computer. I had no idea how to use it, so I decided to use it to further my work as an artist – for creativity. I tried out several drawing and art programs. The most interesting and most accessible to my understanding was CorelDRAW Graphics 11. I began with a simple project as a way to draw my ideas for my personnel art. I became very interested in the advanced users of the CorelDraw program, so I began searching for them on the Internet. Purely by chance I discovered the site of vector graphics Poverclip.ru , to look at what they were doing; and to learn from their work. Since then, I have been quietly studying, using and perfecting their techniques.
Who are your mentors?
I have learned so much from Tasha Drik, Tatyana Prokofieva, MonteR and Ilya Xm, they made a huge contribution to the development of my creativity, and understanding of the design tools, and associated vector tricks.
How do you choose your subject matter?
I paint only what I like. And I mostly like to paint portraits of characters, and complex still life.
Where do you want to be in five years as an artist?
I will continue to develop my technique of drawing with vectors and learning as much as I can about design, art, and painting. I work as a full time machinist , so I need to make time for all of the things in my life.
Why are Russian such good artists?
I think that my desire and determination to do better than others, to work study and learn from the classical artists as well as the new digital artists; and of course my outlook and individuality.
How has the internet changed your business?
The Internet has largely influenced my creative growth, and relationships with other vector artists and designers from not only Russia, but worldwide.
Who is your favorite artist?
I love Levitan and his famous painting “Autumn Day”
If you could work for anyone, who would it be?
It would be the Great Man who likes my work, and person who understands art and understands the role of the artist.
What tools do you use to make your artwork?
CorelDRAW Graphics – I love this program, its ease of the tools, and it’s dynamic and unlimited possibilities for vector painting.
What are your work habits like …
In many ways the work is in a single breath, and it is sometimes necessary to consider how to translate the idea from your mind’s eye into what tools and process to use to achieve a particular and desired effect.
Who have been your clients?
I do not have many client’s, I draw mostly for the joy of vector painting and to learn from other artists. I put many hours into alot of these, and in some cases could not justify the price as a commercial project.
What is the address for your portfolio?
My portfolio is here and here.
How do you get inspired?
I get inspired by works of great traditional artists and their study of the human form, and also just looking at life through a unique personal lens. I love to watch people and the understanding of light and shadow.
What do you do for fun?
My second hobby is fishing and my communion with nature and life.
How old are you?
I am a young 53 years old.
Alex, Thank You for this interview and showing us your fantastic vector work. Your understanding of light and composition is outstanding. I look forward to seeing your new projects!
