VANIA ZOURAVLIOV
Matt Elliott
Interview by Katya Guseva
Russian-born Vania Zouravliov’s work is truly genius. Exquisitely layered with a mixture of innocence, sexuality, beauty and decay, Vania’s illustrations are filled with symbolism and intricate details. Dark motifs combined with erotic scenes are both sensual and provocative. Exceptionally talented, Vania exhibited all over the world by the age of 13 and currently continues to produce a vast range of work for both commercial clients and as an independent artist. In the interview with Big Up Vania talks about the symbolism and message of his art.
What was the very first picture you can remember yourself drawing?
I started drawing when I was 4. My parents have kept the drawing of evil hammerhead people, which was apparently my first one.
What do you have to say about color in your work?
I have always been interested in creating graphic art in its purest form, but that’s not to say that I will not be using a lot more color in the future.
What is your ultimate source of inspiration?
Life of course. People and places that I love, art, music, ladies, books, good food, all sorts of things.
If you look at your art as a dialogue with the world what is the main message you’re trying to convey?
If there is a message, it’s very much like music. I don’t think it needs or benefits from verbal explanation. Lee Scratch Perry once said that he was “an upsetter but not a distresser”. I can certainly relate to this.
A lot of your work has sexual connotations and death symbols. What is the meaning of this symbolism?
I explore basic key elements of life. Birth or creation, sexuality or desire and death or end of cycle. Nothing worthwhile can be created without desire, and every cycle has beginning and end.
Does music play any role in your art?
Yes, it’s a huge inspiration. I love working with good labels and musicians. Sometimes there are moments when nothing interesting is happening for a while, but then a new wave of amazing musicians comes along…
What would you do if you weren’t an artist?
Can I review films in the afternoon and restaurants in the evening?
Do you have a favorite piece of your work?
No, I am always looking forward to the next one.
