What comes to mind when you hear the words “monumental art”? Do you imagine antique frescos on the ceiling of an ancient church or contemporary graffiti murals on the walls of concrete buildings? Whatever stereotypes you have about monumental artwork, prepare to have them dispelled. Today, we would like to introduce Zalkar Toktogulov, a contemporary monumental artist and art restorer, who uses the wisdom of the past to create and preserve artworks in the present.
Zalkar Toktogulov, the Master of Monumental Art and Icon Restoration
Originally from Kyrgyzstan, Zalkar Toktogulov graduated from the Moscow State Academic Art Institute, one of the best art schools in Russia, in 2016. Since the start of his artistic career, Toktogulov has exhibited his work at numerous international group exhibitions and art fairs all over the world. He was also the recipient of a prestigious award for young artists. In 2021, Zalkar Toktogulov held his solo art show titled “Anthill,” where he presented a collection of original artworks. As a conservator-restorer, he participated in the creation of the mosaic for the Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade, Serbia.
An experienced art lover will notice the traces of historical techniques and materials in Zalkar Toktogulov’s work. His pieces are executed in a style resembling works by Old Masters and antique Orthodox icons, in which the artist has a special interest. While Toktogulov is well-versed in easel painting, monumental art has long been his passion. The artist masterfully applies the knowledge gained through the years he spent studying historical artistic techniques to his original mosaics and frescos.
The in-depth knowledge of materials and techniques used by his predecessors allows Zalkar Toktogulov to restore antique icons while preserving their original beauty. The artist believes that his job as an art restorer is to make his intervention as minor and imperceptible as possible. Just look at this side-by-side comparison of the piece before restoration and after Zalkar Toktogulov worked on it. The difference is astonishing: it is almost like the artist took a trip to the past and brought the original icon back to this time with him.
Zalkar Toktogulov’s art is a unique example of how tradition and innovation can work side-by-side. Fine Art Shippers had the pleasure of getting to know the works of this talented artist and restorer better, and we are sure you will love them too.