Sergey Gerasimov (1885–1964) is a renowned Russian and Soviet artist, a key figure in Russian Impressionism, and the creator of iconic works of Socialist Realism. His contribution to art includes book illustration and portraiture, as well as significant pedagogical activity. Gerasimov held a Doctorate in Art History, was a professor, and headed the Moscow State Art Institute named after Vasily Surikov fr om 1943 to 1948. He also served as the first secretary of the Union of Soviet Artists from 1958 to 1964.

Gerasimov was educated at the Stroganov School, then continued his studies at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture under the guidance of such masters as Arkhipov and Korovin.

His fame came from works such as "The Mother of a Partisan", "Kolkhoz Holiday", and others. Born into a peasant family in Mozhaysk, Gerasimov showed an interest in painting from an early age. After his education in Moscow, he was actively involved in teaching, instructing at various educational institutions, and participated in the decoration of Moscow for holidays.

During the Great Patriotic War, Gerasimov was evacuated to Samarkand, wh ere he created a famous series of watercolors. In the post-war years, he continued to teach students and work in the field of book graphics, including illustrating the works of Gorky and Nekrasov.

Sergey Gerasimov passed away in Moscow and was buried at the Novodevichy Cemetery, leaving behind a rich legacy in Russian art.