Famous impressionist Sergey Cherep to paint live at Amandeline Gallery June 20

Internationally acclaimed Russian artist Sergey Cherep will demonstrate his famed painting skills for audiences at Amandeline Gallery Saturday, June 20. The artist and gallery will also display a temporary showcase of dozens of his latest works for sale.

"The technique of painting that I have embraced is definitely the Post-Impressionism style made famous by Van Gogh," says Cherep. "I love the simplicity of colors and energy found in his work. The bold, unrealistic colors and expressive brushstrokes of my predecessors are my tool ... My paintings are like fairy tales- - a dream place.”

Born in Leningrad - now St. Petersburg - in 1969, Cherep began studying art as a young child. At the age of 3 he developed meningitis and became paralyzed, unable to walk or speak for several years. Attending a school for children with disabilities, he found comfort in painting. At the age of 8 he was enrolled in a school for artists and went on to attend college at the prestigious Serovo Art Institute where he gained extensive knowledge in classic art forms.

"School was very disciplined ... there was no freedom,” Cherep explains. “There was no such thing as abstract [painting] because it was considered very Western and evil.”

At 21 he obtained a visa and moved to Atlanta, Ga., where a Russian friend lived. Unable to speak English, he got a job as a janitor at an IRS building, making $150 a week, and painted in his spare time. Eventually, his manager saw his artwork and helped to set up a show for Sergey in the cafeteria of the building where Cherep worked. The young artist sold three paintings, changing his life forever.

After meeting his wife Renee, the two set out to get recognition for Cherep’s art, eventually investing in a booth at a major trade show in New York where the artist sold $20,000 in paintings in one weekend.

Cherep’s career has continued to blossom over the years, earning him much recognition and many accolades for his celebrated vibrant artwork. His work now hangs in many galleries nationally and internationally.

Stop by the galleries at 20 Baltimore Ave. between 1 and 4 p.m., Saturday, June 20, to delight in this rare appearance and opportunity to watch the artist paint. A reception with Cherep will follow from 6 to 9 p.m., as part of the Second Saturday Art Walk. Light refreshments will be served.

Contact Amandeline Gallery at amandelinegallery@gmail.com or call 302-226-0330.