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Draft:Andrey Velikanov

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Andrey Velikanov
Born (1954-07-05) July 5, 1954 (age 70)
Moscow
NationalityRussian Federation
MovementArt theory, aesthetics, philosophy
Websitevelikanov.ru

Andrey Grigoryevich Velikanov (born July 5, 1954, in Moscow, Russian SFSR, USSR) is a philosopher, artist, and art theorist based in Moscow. He works in the field of media art and has published on topics in art and culture theory. In addition to his written work, Velikanov is involved in educational outreach.

In the 2010s and 2020s, Velikanov taught courses at institutions such as the National Research University Higher School of Economics and the Russian State University for the Humanities. He has also lectured at art institutions, including the Moscow Academic Art School and the MediaArtLab. Additionally, he has collaborated with museum centers like the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and the Center for Avant-Garde at the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center.

Velikanov has been recognized with awards at various international festivals and competitions for his work in net art.

Artworks

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Andrey Velikanov began his career as an artist in 1989, focusing initially on kinetic artworks that were displayed in exhibitions across Russia and Germany. In 1994, he expanded his practice to include performances, actions, and happenings.

One of his notable early works was a socially-engaged art action in 1994, called "Moskva Pool," organized in response to the planned reconstruction of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior on the former site of a popular swimming pool. This and other projects often elicited mixed reactions from the press and public.

Since 1997, Velikanov has also worked as a media artist, producing video films and net art projects recognized at various international festivals. In 1999, he created "Namniyaz Ashuratov," a virtual media artist persona, which he used to explore themes of identity and authorship.

Involvement in the "Moscow Basin" Project deepened Velikanov's engagement with theoretical questions in art and culture, prompting an exploration of the philosophy of art. In 2007, the "New Literary Observer" published his book, Am I a Trembling Simulacrum, or Whether I Have the Right?[1] The work, described as an aesthetic manifesto on simulation, proposes a new artistic methodology that incorporates both traditional and contemporary influences. His dissertation, based on this book and titled "Aesthetics of the Simulacrum: The Theoretical Foundations of Interpretation,"[2] was completed in 2019, though it was not defended as part of the formal degree process. The book has been discussed in professional circles and cited in various dissertations and academic publications. Velikanov has also published theoretical articles in art and philosophy journals such as "Logos," "Moscow Art Magazine," "Sklaven," and "Observatory of Culture."

Velikanov's teaching activities began in 1995 and became his primary focus in 2011. He currently leads an independent course titled "Philosophy of Art," which serves as both an educational initiative and a platform for discussion, involving regular participants and invited artists in ongoing dialogue.

"Moskva Pool" Artwork

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The "Moskva Pool" was a socially-engaged art event held in 1994 at the site of an unused pool in Moscow. It sought to examine the cultural atmosphere in Russia at the time and invited public input on possible future uses for the area. Organized in collaboration with artist Marat Kim and curator Maria Katkova, the event included participants who had previously voiced opinions on the pool's future or were interested in the issue. Participant reactions were later compiled in a catalog. The project attracted considerable attention, including religious protests and media coverage.[3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10] Following the event, a catalog titled "BM: History, Event, Analysis" was published, featuring contributions from various artists and critics.[11]

Namniyaz Ashuratova

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Namniyaz Ashuratova was a virtual artist character created by Andrey Velikanov in 1999. The project, under the slogan "Building the Tower of Babel from Information Garbage!", aimed to examine social stereotypes and information overload. According to researcher Evgeny Gorny, Namniyaz Ashuratova represented a "conceptual web artist and virtual persona of a new generation," signaling a shift in Russian internet culture towards self-reflection and identity exploration.

In one Ashuratova project titled "Self-Identification System" (1999), participants were asked to create a symbolic composition representing their individuality, which was then evaluated by an "international identification jury." However, the criteria for assessment were ambiguous and potentially influenced by variables like political correctness or national bias.[12]

Another project, the "Enemy Processing System" (1999-2002), allowed users to designate terms such as "Russian," "woman," "capitalist," or "myself" as objects of criticism or "hatred." This work aimed to reveal the constructed nature of identity and the subjective dimensions of social categories.[13]

A further Ashuratova project, "Virtual Manege" (1999), similarly engaged with the themes of identity and public perception, allowing participants to vote on "the most repulsive figure in contemporary art." The project, which involved both online and offline voting, highlighted issues with the voting process, such as technical limitations and the complexities of interpreting results in a broader cultural and political context.

Critics like gender studies scholar Irina Aristarkhova raised concerns from feminist and postcolonial perspectives, noting that these projects might inadvertently reflect cultural and ethnic biases despite their digital format. Aristarkhova argued that such works could perpetuate the invisibility and homogenization of cultural differences in cyberspace.[14]

Book "Am I a Trembling Simulacrum, or Whether I Have the Right?"

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Published in 2007 by "New Literary Review,"[15] this book is presented as an aesthetic manifesto exploring the concept of simulation and proposing a new artistic approach that combines traditional and contemporary elements.

Summary: The book addresses questions of artistic relevance amid frequent claims about the "end of art." Velikanov questions how artists can continue creating without merely replicating past forms. He suggests that instead of asking "What should I do?" or "Who's to blame?" one should consider "Where?" and "How?" — seeking answers in the transitional spaces of semiotic meaning, a central theme of the book.[16]

Teaching Activity

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Andrey Velikanov's teaching career began in 1995, becoming his primary focus by 2011. Velikanov has taught various theoretical courses at multiple institutions, including:

  • Composition, Design, and Typography at Moscow Academic Art College, 2009-2011
  • "Philosophy for Non-Philosophers" at the Academy of Communications Wordshop, 2011-2012
  • "Philosophy of Art" at The School of Contemporary Art "Open Studios" associated with the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, 2011-2021
  • "Philosophy of Creativity" at the Institute of the History of Cultures (UNIC), 2011-2012
  • "Philosophy of Art" at the Higher School of Art Practices and Museum Technologies, RSUH, 2011-2012
  • "Contemporary Art" in the Master’s Program in Cultural Studies, National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE), 2012-2013
  • "Visual Philosophy of the Russian Avant-Garde" at the MediaArtLab Center for Culture and Art, 2013
  • "Contemporary Art" at the school of modern photography "Photoplay," 2014
  • "Philosophy of Art" in the Master’s Program in Contemporary Art, School of Design, HSE, 2019-2021
  • "Philosophy of Art" at the BAZA Institute, 2020-2021

In addition to institutional teaching, Velikanov leads an independent course, “Philosophy of Art,” which operates as an educational project and open discussion platform. Participants and guest artists engage in dialogues on topics related to art, culture, and philosophy.

The course functions as a collaborative research environment, where participants explore philosophical and artistic theories. Lectures are designed to encourage critical analysis rather than fixed interpretations, with exercises aimed at developing skills in understanding diverse theories, interpreting artworks, and conducting independent research projects. Participants present and discuss their findings with the group, often joined by prominent artists who provide insights into their creative processes.

Over time, approximately 150 individuals have participated in these sessions. The sessions have taken place at locations such as The School of Contemporary Art "Open Studios", the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center,[17] Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and the School of Design at HSE.

Philosophy of Art [18]

This lecture series examines how philosophical concepts have influenced art and shaped distinct cultural paradigms. Velikanov argues that contemporary creativity requires more than personal expression, instead demanding critical thought and contextual knowledge. The series explores ideas from philosophers and artists whose works contribute to an extensive repository of cultural and theoretical insights.

Languages of Culture [19]

The "Languages of Culture" series explores the relationship between philosophical concepts and culture, structured as a semiotic system that operates through diverse languages. Art is presented as a means of understanding and enriching cultural experience, building upon themes introduced in the "Philosophy of Art" series.

Anamorphic Encyclopedia [20]

The "Anamorphic Encyclopedia" series applies an anamorphic approach to cultural analysis, encouraging interpretations from multiple perspectives. Each lecture addresses a cultural term or object, spanning contemporary humanities concepts to internet memes. While individual lectures are self-contained, together they form a reference framework complementing the broader "Philosophy of Art" cycle.

Ideas and Imageries [21]

The "Ideas and Imageries" series explores the intersection of philosophical ideas with literature, film, and music, examining how concepts shape imagery and, conversely, how imagery fosters new ideas. Each lecture spotlights a particular creator, analyzing their work within the context of these concepts.

Homo Mutabilis. Changing Humanity: Ideas Shaping the Human Experience [22]

The "Homo Mutabilis" series traces key ideas that have reshaped humanity, transitioning from Homo Faber (the creative human) to Homo Mutabilis (the adaptable human). Velikanov examines how philosophy, science, art, and technology contribute to ongoing transformations in human capabilities and identity.

Selected Publications

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Prizes

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  • 1995: Special recognition and EMARE scholarship from the Ostranenie: International Video Forum, Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, Germany.[23]
  • 1998: First prize in the "Art Project" category at the Da-Da-Net '98 International Festival of net art projects, Moscow.
  • 1998: Grand Prix at the Art on the Net Festival, Machida City Museum of Graphic Arts, Tokyo.
  • 1999: Second prize in the "Contemporary Art" category at the Da-Da-Net International Festival, Moscow.
  • 1999: Third prize in the "Contemporary Art" category at the Da-Da-Net International Festival, Moscow.
  • 1999: First prize in the "Radical and Conformist Project" category at the Trash-Art Festival, Moscow.
  • 1999: Honorable mention at the Art on the Net Festival, Tokyo.
  • 2000: Best interactive project at the South by Southwest Interactive Festival (SXSW).
  • 2000: Special prize at the Split Festival, Croatia.
  • 2000: Honorable mention at the Art on the Net Festival, Tokyo.
  • 2002: Grand Prix at the Art on the Net Festival, Tokyo.[24] [25]

Biographical Anecdotes

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The artist became embroiled in a crossfire incident involving the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Federal Security Service.

A sensational newspaper report alleged that Velikanov attempted to mediate between the personnel of these two enforcement agencies who were exchanging gunfire. Velikanov himself vehemently denies these claims, insisting that the entire account is a fabrication.[26]

Commemorating 50 Years since the Hiroshima Atomic Blast: The Flaming Statement

A large-scale artistic demonstration marking the 50th anniversary of the Hiroshima atomic blast took an unexpected twist when the artist Velikanov took action. Adjacent to the American embassy, a monumental cake had been erected, but Velikanov doused it with gasoline and ignited it, exclaiming, "Lives were engulfed in nuclear flames, and you've gathered here to feast? I won't allow it! This cannot stand!" Velikanov was apprehended but subsequently released on the same day. Law enforcement managed to argue that the entire event fell within the realm of artistic expression.

"Megapolis-Express," August 9, 1995. Archived version from July 24, 2021

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References

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  1. ^ Velikanov, Andrey (2007). Am I a Trembling Simulacrum, or Whether I Have the Right. Moscow: New Literary Observer. ISBN 978-5-86793-545-0.
  2. ^ Velikanov, Andrey (2019). Aesthetics of the Simulacrum: The Theoretical Foundations of Interpretation. A dissertation submitted for the degree of Candidate of Philosophical Sciences. Moscow: State Institute of Art Studies.
  3. ^ Skalkina, Marina (1994-05-31). "Body Temperature Measurement". Today.
  4. ^ Didurov, Alexey (1994). "The Tale of the Chalice". Stolitsa. No. 40.
  5. ^ Shafarevich, Igor (1994-05-20). "Koshchunstvo (Impropriety)". Literaturnaya Gazeta.
  6. ^ Timofeeva, Irina (1994-06-05). "Pyrhhus (Feast) During the Plague". Moscow News. No. 23.
  7. ^ Zabotkina, Olga (1994-06-04). "Temple of Our Savior". Kuranty.
  8. ^ Vladykin, S. (1994-06-04). ""All of Moscow" and "all of St. Petersburg" joined in the public festivities". Kommersant. No. 102.
  9. ^ Stomakhin, I. (1994-06-01). "The Lutheran-Orthodox Meeting Ended in Misunderstanding". Inostranets.
  10. ^ ""The Moscow Pool" is an exhibition of absurdity". Argumenty i Fakty. Vol. 13, no. 40. 1994.
  11. ^ Velikanov, A. G. "Am I a Shaky Simulacrum or Do I Have the Right." Moscow: Novoe Literaturnoe Obozrenie, 2007. ISBN 978-5-86793-545-0
  12. ^ Gorny, Evgeny (2007-05-10). "Virtual Identity as a Genre of Creativity: A Study of the Russian Internet". Network Literature (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2020-09-22. Retrieved 2020-09-08.
  13. ^ Gorny, Evgeny (2007-05-10). "Virtual Identity as a Genre of Creativity: A Study of the Russian Internet". Network Literature (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2020-09-22. Retrieved 2020-09-08.
  14. ^ Aristarkhova, Irina (2000). "Otherness in Net-Communities: Practising Difference in Post-Soviet Virtual Context" (PDF). Situating Technologies (Conference paper). De Balie, Amsterdam: Situating Technologies Symposium. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2017-07-06.
  15. ^ Velikanov, A. G. (2007). Am I a Quivering Simulacrum or Do I Have a Right?. Moscow: Novoe Literaturnoe Obozrenie. ISBN 978-5-86793-545-0.
  16. ^ "Am I a Trembling Simulacrum, or Whether I Have the Right?". Archived from the original on 2021-06-10. Retrieved 2021-06-10.
  17. ^ Velikanov, Andrey. ""Philosophy of Art" Course at the Avant-garde Center". Archived from the original on 2014-04-24. Retrieved 2018-06-06.
  18. ^ Velikanov, Andrey. "Philosophy of Art: How Philosophy Influenced Art and Cultural Models of Society". artguide.com (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2019-09-17. Retrieved 2020-08-16.
  19. ^ Velikanov, Andrey. "The lecture series "Languages of Culture"". The Garage Museum of Contemporary Art (in Russian).
  20. ^ Velikanov, Andrey. "Lecture Series "Anamorphic Encyclopedia"". The Garage Museum of Contemporary Art (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2020-09-27. Retrieved 2020-08-16.
  21. ^ Velikanov. "Lecture Series: "Ideas and Images"". Garage Museum of Contemporary Art (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2020-09-18. Retrieved 2020-08-16.
  22. ^ Velikanov, Andrey. "Lecture Series: "Homo Mutabilis: The Changing Human. Ideas that Transform Humanity"". Garage Museum of Contemporary Art (in Russian). Archived from the original on 2020-09-29. Retrieved 2020-08-16.
  23. ^ "Catalog of the "Ostranenie" Festival, 1995" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2021-07-24. Retrieved 2021-07-24.
  24. ^ "Art on the Net'2002, Tokyo". Archived from the original on 2021-06-16. Retrieved 2021-06-10.
  25. ^ "Art on the Net'2002, Tokyo. Awards". Archived from the original on 2021-09-13. Retrieved 2021-06-10.
  26. ^ "Megapolis-Express". Archived from the original on 2021-07-24. Retrieved 2019-08-01.
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