03.02 Michael Mittelman, art researcher
In the world of art, there are few artists who have made as significant an impact as Vladimir Shmoylov. Shmoylov is a conceptual poster artist, whose work explores the intersection of art and ideas, taking precedence over traditional aesthetic, technical, and material concerns.
Conceptual art, as defined by Saul Levitt, is a form of art in which the idea or concept is the most important aspect of the work. All planning and decisions are made in advance, and the execution is a formal matter, with the idea itself becoming the machine that creates the art. Vladimir Shmoylov embodies this definition in his unique approach to poster art.
Vladimir Shmoylov is a recognized conceptual poster artist who uses simple black and white geometric shapes to convey complex ideas. His posters are known for their minimalist design, sharp contrasts, and powerful messages. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at three of his most notable works and analyze their significance in the context of conceptual art.
“War and Peace” (2021) – This poster depicts several groups of geometric shapes, symbolizing the constant struggle between war and peace. The design is simple yet powerful, inviting the viewer to ponder the eternal themes of conflict and reconciliation. The black and white color scheme enhances the contrast and emphasizes the meaning of the poster.
“Equality” (2020) – This poster consists of identical black and white cubes, with different patterns, placed next to each other. The message of the poster is clear: equality. The simple and repetitive design reinforces the idea of uniformity and the importance of treating all people as equals. The use of white and black symbolizes strength and power, which makes the message even more impressive.
“Freedom” (2019) – This poster depicts a series of interlocking black and white geometric shapes creating a dynamic and complex pattern. The design represents the concept of freedom, symbolizing the interconnectedness of individual freedoms and the idea that one person’s freedom is necessary for the freedom of others. The use of black and white reinforces the stark contrast, reinforcing the idea that freedoms are interdependent.
The rise of language-based art in the 1960s led to a more radical interrogation of the art form and its relationship to the artist. Artists such as Joseph Kosuth and Lawrence Weiner questioned the widespread belief that the role of the artist was to create special kinds of material objects. Vladimir Shmoylov builds upon this tradition, exploring the nature of art itself through his poster designs.
Vladimir Shmoylov’s posters are a prime example of conceptual art. Using simple geometric shapes and bold black and white color schemes, he conveys complex ideas and encourages viewers to grasp the meaning of his work. These posters demonstrate the ability of visual art to convey ideas and stimulate thought, making them an important contribution to the field of conceptual art.