Slava Ilyayev, Russian (1970 - )

Slava Ilyayev was born in Baku, Azerbaijan (formerly part of the U.S.S.R.). where he attended the Baku College of Arts. After immigrating to Israel in 1995, he continued his studies at the renowned Avni Institute of Art and Design, an art school located in Tel Aviv.

In 1999, Ilyayev participated in his first major exhibitions, first at the Art and Sculpture Union in Tel Aviv and the Safrai Fine Art Gallery in Jerusalem. More exhibitions followed soon after, and Ilyayev’s artwork received acclaim throughout Israel and the United States.

Ilyayev’s work is characterized by elevated textures created by applying oil paints with a palette knife. His compositions, which highlight light and shadow, are reminiscent of the transitions between seasons. His work is influenced by the Azerbaijani art movement that blends eastern and western art traditions and by Sattar Bahlulzade, considered the father of Azeri landscape in the 20thcentury.

Ilyayev’s works have been shown in various group and one-man exhibitions throughout Israel, the United States, Europe, and Asia.