My History With Chemiakin
I first discovered Mihail Chemiakin’s work around 1976 while working in Toronto. One day, while strolling through the city, I happened upon a gallery showcasing a few of his pieces. Though I was unfamiliar with his work at the time, I was immediately captivated by his bold vision and distinctive style. Something in his art resonated deeply, and I felt compelled to purchase my first original artwork. That experience ignited a newfound passion for collecting and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of art. Looking back, that moment began a journey that would lead to a significant personal and professional relationship with one of the most influential artists of the Russian Avant-Garde movement.
My connection to Chemiakin became personal in 1980 when I was working in New York. I learned that he lived in the Village and, to my surprise, found his phone number in the directory. Intrigued and inspired, I reached out to him. That call marked the beginning of what would become a significant friendship that profoundly shaped my relationship with art and artists. When we met, Mihail had no formal connections representing him in the United States, very little money, and was struggling to find a platform for his work. Seeing the immense potential in his art, I began purchasing pieces directly from him, even though I, too, had limited financial resources.
As we continued to communicate and collaborate, I suggested hosting two “meet and greet” events to introduce his work to a broader audience in the United States. At the time, I was working in both Southern and Northern California, which allowed me to organize exhibitions in both regions. The events were successful, drawing the attention of collectors and galleries, and during those events, he was able to find professional representation. Within a couple of years, Mihail’s work gained the recognition it deserved. One of the pivotal moments in his career came when I was able to connect him with the Bowles Hopkins Gallery in San Francisco. The gallery played a crucial role in marketing his art and establishing him as a leading figure in the Russian Avant-Garde movement. This exposure helped propel him into the international art scene, solidifying his status as a celebrated artist.
By 1983, after successfully facilitating these connections and setting him on a trajectory toward success, I stepped back from my direct involvement. Mihail and I both agreed that the foundation we had built was strong and that he was now positioned to continue growing independently. In the years that followed, his acclaim grew, and his contributions to art were recognized not only in the West but also in his homeland. After the shift in political power in Eastern Europe post-1984, he was welcomed back to Russia as a hero—the enduring impact of his work and his influence on Russian contemporary art.
I take great pride in having played a role in Mihail Chemiakin’s journey. Our friendship and collaboration were built on mutual respect and a shared passion for art. He taught me about his vision of Metaphysical Transformation. Seeing his work receive the recognition it deserved and watching him claim his place as a pivotal figure in the art world remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Enclosed here are some of the personal notes and dedications Mihail wrote to me personally, calling me his brother and signing some dedications using his most personal name “Misha”, which is very unusual to see.
Nearly 50 years ago, I began collecting these original works with a deep appreciation for their significance—and now, offering them here feels like coming full circle. For the serious collector, this is more than just a rare opportunity; it’s a chance to connect with the historical context that shaped Mihail Chemiakin’s vision. His work, bold and thought-provoking, reflects a legacy that feels increasingly relevant in today’s ever-changing world.
