Andrey Filippov belongs in the circle of Moscow Conceptualists. Their works are characterised by visual and textual symbols and an interest in problems of form. Between 1976−1981 he studied at the studio of the Moscow Art Theatre, and started painting in 1982. Between 1982−84 he regularly exhibited at the APT-ART Gallery in Moscow (“apartment art”: unofficial exhibitions in private apartments). In 1987 he joined the Avant-Garde Club (KlAva). Since 2009 he has been collaborating with Yuri Albert and Viktor Skersis as a member of the Cupidon Group. One of Filippov’s favourite symbols is the two-headed eagle in Russia’s coat of arms, which at once symbolises the unity and the division of East and West. Painted in the four basic colours, the “cut-outs” reflect and transpose specific details of the original motif, forming abstract figures resembling a Rorschach test, distanced from the heraldic meanings of the original. His paintings and large theatrical installations – made of various objects, sings and paintings – explore the rise and fall of great empires (Rome, Byzantium, Russia). In autumn 2015, Filippov is the special guest of the 6th Moscow Biennale.