DANCING WITH FLAMINGOS / ARTEM OVCHARENKO, PRINCIPAL DANCER OF BOLSHOI THEATRE. Oil

Since the beginning of time artists are using allegory and symbolism to convey messages through their art-works. In my series "Dancing With Birds" I found it interesting to use the symbolic meaning of different birds, which has developed over the centuries of the existence of ancient civilizations. It gives an additional enriched meaning to the subjects of the paintings, inner meaning. I am sure those were birds, the only dancing creatures of Nature, who once taught the Man dance lessons, "body language", so the unification of ballet dancers and birds is very organic for me.
Birds are believed to be some of the most beautiful creations of nature, and flamingo bird is perhaps one of the most recognisable and adorable. Its refined, exquisite body shapes and vibrant scarlet colours of plumage are mesmerising... Flamingos are an allegory of Balance and Steadfastness, of Healing, Love and Romance.