Russian artist finds refuge and inspiration in Oregon after war
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new life in Bend, Oregon, after fleeing the war in Ukraine. Anton Yakushev, a 39-year-old metal sculptor originally from Kolomna, Russia, has found refuge and a supportive community in the U.S. since arriving in February 2022. His journey as an artist has been deeply intertwined with his political beliefs and personal history, particularly his connections to Ukraine, where his mother was born.
Yakushev's artistic career has flourished despite the turmoil caused by the ongoing conflict. His intricate metal sculptures, which are hand-forged rather than cast, have gained international recognition, with pieces displayed in various museums and public spaces. However, the war has profoundly affected him, leading to a permanent relocation to the U.S. after the invasion of Ukraine. He and his wife, Katya, initially planned a short visit but realized returning to Russia would jeopardize their safety due to Yakushev's opposition to the Russian government.
The artist's political stance has not only influenced his life but also his work. He has faced exclusion from competitions and artist unions in Russia, a consequence of his vocal opposition to the government and its actions in Ukraine. His art often reflects the horrors of war, as seen in a series of soldier sculptures created with metal sourced from World War II battlefields.
In Bend, Yakushev has found camaraderie among local artists, including Joe Elliott, a seasoned blacksmith who has become a mentor and collaborator. Together, they have created a life-size eagle sculpture now displayed at the High Desert Museum. This partnership has allowed Yakushev to explore new artistic avenues, including jewelry making, as he adapts to his new environment.
As Yakushev continues to build his life and career in the U.S., he remains committed to using his art as a means of expression and connection, allowing viewers to engage with his work on a personal level. The couple is now focused on their upcoming art shows and the sale of their creations, marking a new chapter in their lives shaped by resilience and creativity amidst the backdrop of war.
Yakushev's artistic career has flourished despite the turmoil caused by the ongoing conflict. His intricate metal sculptures, which are hand-forged rather than cast, have gained international recognition, with pieces displayed in various museums and public spaces. However, the war has profoundly affected him, leading to a permanent relocation to the U.S. after the invasion of Ukraine. He and his wife, Katya, initially planned a short visit but realized returning to Russia would jeopardize their safety due to Yakushev's opposition to the Russian government.
The artist's political stance has not only influenced his life but also his work. He has faced exclusion from competitions and artist unions in Russia, a consequence of his vocal opposition to the government and its actions in Ukraine. His art often reflects the horrors of war, as seen in a series of soldier sculptures created with metal sourced from World War II battlefields.
In Bend, Yakushev has found camaraderie among local artists, including Joe Elliott, a seasoned blacksmith who has become a mentor and collaborator. Together, they have created a life-size eagle sculpture now displayed at the High Desert Museum. This partnership has allowed Yakushev to explore new artistic avenues, including jewelry making, as he adapts to his new environment.
As Yakushev continues to build his life and career in the U.S., he remains committed to using his art as a means of expression and connection, allowing viewers to engage with his work on a personal level. The couple is now focused on their upcoming art shows and the sale of their creations, marking a new chapter in their lives shaped by resilience and creativity amidst the backdrop of war.
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