To study a painting by Oleg Zhivetin is to take a symbolic journey down the path of enlightenment. Zhivetin is fond of incorporating religious images and other icons such as hearts, musical instruments, books and flowers into his art. These icons bring a cerebral yet purely aesthetic dimension to his work that continues to captivate art lovers around the world. 



Born in 1964 in Uzbekistan, Zhivetin began painting at a young age. Through the guidance of his family he developed his technical ability and distinctive style. Even the quilts his grandparents created made an impression on the young Zhivetin. The intricate patterns of many of these designs are seen in his work today, often applied onto canvas in gold foil or gold leaf. 

While in Russia, Zhivetin studied with such masters as Yuri Karilov at the Surikov Art Institute, the Soviet Union’s most prestigious art school. But when fate brought him to Laguna Beach, California, it was only a matter of time before his popularity would take hold. Collectors and critics were awed by his refreshing style using oil paint and his skillful rendering of faces, hands and feet. In fact, this is considered one of the most beautiful and important aspects of his work. In looking at an Oleg Zhivetin, one notices that the characters often communicate through hand gestures rather than eye contact.

For Zhivetin, creating art is like uncovering the meaning of life. It’s no wonder he continues to move the art world with the beauty, symbolism, and spirituality of his work.