About the Artist - Mikhail (Misha) Lavrenko

Misha Lavrenko was born on the 27th November 1952 into a very artistic family. His Father is Boris Lavrenko a Professor of Painting (Ph.D. Art Science) who holds the title of "Popular" Artist of Russia." His Mother was a school teacher. His sister Galina is a Graphic Artist who illustrates Children's Books.

Misha studied from the age of 12 in the special Russian Academy Art School. From there he entered the famous Ilja Repin Institute of Painting Section of Monumental Art. Upon graduation he served his Nation Service in the Army. From 1980 he worked in Decorative Monumental Art and designed eight large mosaic panels in various Russian Cities. Since 1990 he has worked full time as a painter taking part in Art Exhibitions.

His work is featured in USA, Finland Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, France and Japan. In 1991 he was invited to paint work for the Museum of Alaskan History in the US. The subject being Russian America in Sitka. There are some 40 works displayed there.

He has for some years been a member of the Committee of the St. Petersburg Artist's Society. He married Vera Zvereva who is a Manager of Courses of the North West Section of the Russian Dog Federation. She is owner of the "Bjorkezund" Kennel breeding Kerry Blue Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Their son Ivan is a Karate Master who works with young Juvenile Delinquents in the Municiple Centre.

Misha Lavrenko works in Landscape and Still Life Painting and has now added dog portraiture to his portfolio.