Igor Babailov, Hon. RAA, world-renowned American artist, was invited to Russia, where, in an official ceremony in Moscow he was bestowed the world’s highest honor in the arts. The historically acclaimed Russian Academy of Arts (est.1757) elected Mr. Babailov into its roster of Academicians. In recent years, previous recipients of this honor included designer Pierre Cardin, HRH Princess Chantal of France and the great American artist, Andrew Wyeth.
About the Russian Academy of Arts
Peter the Great's plan to create a Russian art school came to fruition on Nov. 6, 1757, when the Russian Academy of Arts was established under the reign of Empress Elizabeth. In 1764, Catherine the Great proclaimed it the Imperial Academy of Arts and rendered it special privilege. Since its inception, the Academy taught and gave the world some of the most famous names in the history of art such as F. Bruni, A. Ivanov, K. Bryullov, J.A. Whistler, I. Kramskoy, I. Repin, V. Serov and many other artists. In compliance with the RAA Charter, membership in the Russian Academy of Arts consists of: full members (academicians), corresponding members and honorary members (honorary academicians). Members are elected by the Academy Assembly.
About Igor Babailov
Mr. Babailov has painted the official portraits of world leaders including two popes and patriarch, presidents, prime ministers, ambassadors, generals, judges, Nobel peace prize laureates, celebrities and some of the most distinguished families and individuals around the world. In 2010, the Vatican curator acknowledged Mr. Babailov as ‘Maestro,’ when his official portrait of Pope Benedict XVI was selected by the Pope for the Vatican Splendors museum tour and he was the only living artist to exhibit alongside the works of Michelangelo, Giotto, Bernini and other Masters of the Renaissance.
Mr. Babailov is a member of the National Arts Club of New York and numerous other organizations. His distinguished awards include the Pontifical Medal of John Paul II, The U.S. Military Commander's Medal for Excellence, the Order ‘Service to Art’ of the International Academy of Culture and Art and other such prestigious awards and state honors. His official website is www.Babailov.com.