Boris Shapiro
Boris Shapiro (Lvov, 1968) is well and thoroughly educated at the art academy of his hometown Lvov in the Ukraine. At that time, the country still belonged to the Soviet Union. At this traditional academy there was no room for humor or individual expression. However, in 1991, the artist moved to Israel. In his new homeland, the painter then flourished. He developed a unique painting style, while in his oil paintings for the first time there was room for irony and humor, which could be characterized as a merciful nod to humanity. After his emigration, the visual motifs of his performances took on the character of fairy tales. Shapiro also began to paint mysterious-looking portraits. The subjects of his work are derived from folk tales, mythological, biblical and Jewish narratives. At the same time, he bases himself on what he has experienced himself and on personal observations.
Style, symbolism and themes
Style, symbolism and themes Symbols, both universal and very personal, are common in Shapiro's paintings. They can be found in hats, clothing and other attributes of the painted characters. This partially elusive symbolism lends mysticism to his work. His work is reminiscent of that of some famous artists in the history of modern art, including Marc Chagall and Giorgio de Chirico.
Boris Shapiro, Spectrum, oil on canvas, 100 x 60 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Because of the color scheme and the naïve-looking human figures, his work is also reminiscent of that of the Dutch and Flemish masters of the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. The human figures in Shapiro's paintings, in many cases wearing fantastically grotesque headgear, can be seen as symbolic personifications. The attributes that they hold or that surround them are of all kinds. Common are fish, birds, trees, treetops, spirals, keys and keyholes. These objects, like the titles of the paintings, undoubtedly contribute to personal associations. Interpretations of his work easily arise from the life experience and memories of a viewer. Compare this to the effect of listening to a musical melody. Closed rooms from memory are opened. One suddenly remembers a forgotten loved one or a very special event from the past...
Shapiro depicts timeless and everyday human themes, for example the love between man and woman. He seems to advocate humility and simplicity. In all his work, the respect for his fellow man and nature is palpable. His fine-tuned painting also depicts a deep wonder for the mystery of life. It exudes great gratitude for that. What is fascinating is how he manages to wrap his scenes again and again in a mysteriously enchanting atmosphere. A subtle sense of humour also gives his paintings an inimitable charm. Thorough craftsmanship finally completes the visual celebration of his art. It should be noted that the artist moves many people worldwide with his joyful positive scenes.
Boris Shapiro, Red Captain, oil on canvas, 40 x 30 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Shapiro & Galeria Feliz de Arte
All over the world there are now enthusiasts for Shapiro's honest and original work. The artist has exhibited in Paris, New York, Vienna, London and Tel Aviv. Between 2007 and 2022 in the Netherlands, the artist's painting was presented with great success by Galerie Beeldkracht, the former gallery of Sander and Gaby Kletter. The gallery exhibited his artworks solo five times during that period, beside several group exhibitions. It also presented his work at main Dutch art fairs in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Lochem and Laren. In Belgium his work was shown by the gallery at the established art fair Art Nocturne Knocke.
From 2023, Boris Shapiro will be exclusively represented in Portugal by Galeria Feliz de Arte in Ladoeiro. His paintings can be seen at the gallery on a permanent basis. Just call +351 966 156 179 for an appointment to come and see them. You are very welcome!
Sander Kletter
art historian / gallery owner, September 2023
Boris Shapiro, Evening Walk, oil on canvas, 60 x 80 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Engineer, oil on canvas, 70 x 60 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Birdman, oil on canvas, 80 x 69 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Aviator (left), The Captain (right), oil on canvas, each 70 x 40 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Europe, oil on canvas, 73 x 60 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Lovers, oil on canvas, 50 x 40 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Joker, oil on canvas, 50 x 43 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Jakob's Dream, oil on canvas, 120 x 70 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Secret Hunter, oil on canvas, 50 x 40 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Queen of May, oil on canvas, 80 x 70 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, She's with a Flower (left), He's with a Bird (right), oil on canvas, each 59 x 49 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Blue Mask, oil on canvas, 69 x 49 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
Boris Shapiro, Daddy, oil on canvas, 50 x 43 cm
Galeria Feliz de Arte, Ladoeiro
