Dmitry Shagin
/Born 1957/
Dmitry Shagin, a renowned Soviet and Russian artist, writer, poet, and musician, gained prominence for his remarkable role in the creative group known as "Mitki." This group symbolized the underground art scene of Leningrad during the era of stagnation and continues to captivate audiences today.
Born on October 29, 1957, in Leningrad, Dmitry Shagin comes from an artistic family, with his parents serving as his first teachers, nurturing his talents.
In 1975, Shagin graduated from the art school affiliated with the Academy of Arts of the USSR. Since the mid-1970s, he actively participated in exhibitions showcasing the work of unofficial artists in St. Petersburg. His involvement included exhibitions organized by the Association of Experimental Exhibitions and the Association of Experimental Fine Arts.
In 1984, Shagin formed the group "Mitki," bringing together artists, poets, writers, and musicians in Leningrad. The group's focus centered around urban folklore, which served as a central theme in their artistic creations. "Mitki" emerged as a significant force within Leningrad's unofficial art movement in the latter half of the 20th century. Building upon the nonconformist traditions established by renowned artists of the Arefyev Circle, the guiding motto of the "Mitki" was, "Mitki do not seek to conquer anyone; hence, they shall conquer the entire world."
Since the late 1980s, Dmitry Shagin has participated in collective exhibitions featuring Soviet artists both in Europe and abroad. His works have been acquired by private collectors from various countries, including the USSR, Russia, and international art institutions such as the Russian Museum, the Museum of the History of St. Petersburg, and the Novosibirsk Art Museum.