OB/GYN by day, artist by night to display paintings previously residing in the Russian Embassy in New York City
MIAMI – November 17, 2015 –CASA Wynwood, a new members-only exhibition space, gallery, and event venue featuring high-end art, home decor, and luxury products, has announced that medical doctor and artist Steven Swancoat, one of its first artist members, will be displaying work he created for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A self-taught painter who first picked up a brush just four years ago, Swancoat is quickly gaining a reputation as a talented and creative artist. “I had no formal art training, and not really much of an interest to speak of, until my dad visited me in New York and encouraged me to give photography, and later painting, a try,” he said. Ultimately, a chance conversation with a fellow doctor who also happened to have been a physician on the last Russian Winter Olympic team and a colleague of Vladimir Putin led to Swancoat completing a series of paintings for the Russian President.
“As an artist who loves exploring new creative territory, I feel a real connection with CASA Wynwood,” said Swancoat. “The concept of the venue is very unique. I’m excited to display my paintings thereupon the opening during Art Basel.”
In addition to showing his work, Swancoat will tell the story behind the “Putin Paintings” on December 4 at 6pm at CASA Wynwood. Joining him for the presentation will be Dr. Boris Petrikovsky, the man who connected him with Putin and hand-delivered one of Swancoat’s paintings to him. “I told Steven that I couldn’t just call President Putin anytime, but that I could get tea or lunch arranged for when I returned to Russia with the painting,” said Petrikovsky. “I look forward to sharing our story.”
Surprisingly for a doctor who often works 80 hour weeks, Swancoat has a number of new projects either underway or in mind. He also accepts commissions. “I try not to get too tied down with commissions, as I like to maintain my artistic freedom,” he says, “But if the project sounds interesting and I’m given enough latitude, I will definitely consider it.”
“That one man can be so skilled and so accomplished in multiple fields is truly impressive,” said Christi Tasker, CASA Wynwood co-founder and “Chief Happiness Officer.” “We feel truly fortunate to have Steven as a member of CASA Wynwood, and to have the opportunity to share the experience of the ‘Putin Paintings’ first hand with CASA Wynwood members.”
