Filippov, Andrei: Cut Image of a Capital 1–4 (1990)

oil on canvas
Long-term loan from the Peter und Irene Ludwig Stiftung, Aachen, 1991
Keywords

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.