Nikas Safronov Launches Major India Art Series

New Delhi [India], November 28: This December, India will host two major exhibitions by Nikas Safronov, the People’s Artist of the Russian Federation, marking a significant cultural milestone supported by Rosneft Oil Company. The artist has confirmed that the project will be executed to a high technological standard and will lay the foundation for a broader international exhibition program. In an interview with the Russian business daily Vedomosti, Safronov spoke about his creative inspirations, his views on commercial art, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in painting.

The first exhibition will open in New Delhi from 7 to 21 December, followed by a second presentation in Mumbai from 25 December to 15 January. Together, they will feature 96 artworks, many representing Safronov’s celebrated Dream Vision style. Ten of the pieces were created specifically for the Indian audience. Safronov emphasised that the initiative was made possible by Rosneft Oil Company's cultural support.

“Rosneft supports numerous cultural programmes and builds bridges between Russia and the world. Culture unites people because it speaks the universal language of emotion. I am honoured to contribute to these meaningful initiatives,” he said.

A Project with Personal and Spiritual Significance

Safronov noted that his participation in the India exhibitions also fulfils a blessing he received from Pope Francis, who encouraged him to “build spiritual bridges — in the Vatican, across Europe and around the world.” Recalling their final meeting before the pontiff’s passing in February 2025, Safronov shared his deep appreciation:
“Despite his ill health, he did not cancel our meeting. It was meaningful for both of us. I gifted him a spiritual painting depicting the Basilica of San José de Flores, where he began his ministry in Buenos Aires.”

Immersing in India’s Cultural Tapestry

In preparation for the exhibitions, the artist studied India’s cultural, architectural, and spiritual heritage. “I explored images of Shiva and Brahma, the Taj Mahal, Varanasi, landscapes and monuments. To capture the atmosphere, I revisited the works of Nicholas Roerich, seeing India and Tibet once again through his eyes,” he said.

High-Tech Presentation Across Two Cities

The exhibitions will be hosted at two museums and will feature advanced staging technologies. “The presentation will be serious, thanks to Rosneft’s involvement,” Safronov explained. “Visitors will find 15 themed zones, multimedia projections, LED and volumetric screens, neuro-mirror technology, animated paintings, and precision lighting. Guests will be able to approach the artworks and see them glow from within. It will be beautiful and impressive.”

Artificial Intelligence: A Tool, Not a Replacement

Speaking about artificial intelligence in art, Safronov maintained that AI cannot replace the human artist. “AI can assist, but it cannot do the creative work for you. It cannot invent something radically new, because it operates on human-fed templates.”

However, he acknowledged its value in enhancing viewer experience:
“AI can bring a painting to life, create immersive metaverse-like environments, reveal hidden details, and enhance engagement through VR and AR. Live art combined with new technologies is no longer the future — it is our present.”

Dream Vision: Capturing the Last Moments of a Dream

Safronov described his Dream Vision style as the fleeting images remembered just before waking. These impressions draw from scenes across Venice, Pompeii, Russian forests and more. “It is a complex technique based on professionalism, perspective, draftsmanship and colour.”

Portraiture and Studio Practice

For Safronov, the psychological depth of a subject outweighs physical likeness. “A portrait is about character, about understanding a person’s inner world.” Personal affinity is not essential, he said, as respect for each sitter is fundamental.

He also shared that he works primarily without assistants. “No one can replace me in the process. It’s difficult to teach someone to think and create as you do.”

Expectations for India

Safronov hopes the exhibitions will attract a diverse audience — students, artists, business leaders and local residents. “We plan to hold talks, master classes and engage with communities. And again, I thank Rosneft Oil Company for supporting this project.”

For any objections regarding the content of this press release, please contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com.