Why Talk About the Repin Academy?
After thorough research and a visit to the majestic Repin Academy in St. Petersburg, I feel a duty and an obligation to share the glimpse and magnitude of what this institution represents. These words come from my heart, and I believe this is one of the few places in the world that still preserves a traditional artistic style passed down from generation to generation among highly qualified teachers and students who have a genuine interest in learning.
I cannot help but express my humility in the face of the grandeur of this institution, which has shaped generations of talented artists over the centuries and completely changed my way of thinking about Fine Arts. My journey through this bastion of Russian art is just beginning, and I hope to share with others the things I will learn in Russia, in St. Petersburg, at the Repin Academy.
Before we begin, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making my journey a reality. To my parents, Aniceto Gomes da Silva Junior and Nilza Romilda Ribeiro, who still suffer from the absence of a son at home. To my sister, Victória Elizabeth, who has always supported me emotionally and materially on this journey. To Mr. Marcos Alessandri, Master and Doctor in Visual Arts from the State University of Campinas and a professor in the Painting Department. To my late grandfather, Aniceto Gomes da Silva, who served as an inspiration in many moments of my life. To the teachers at the Repin Academy who are teaching me during the preparatory course for 2023/2024. And to all my friends who provided support in realizing this dream. To all of you, my most sincere thank you.
St. Petersburg Repin State Academic Institute of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture of Russian Academy of Arts
(St. Petersburg Repin Academy)
I believe we can begin.
The Academy of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, known as the Repin Academy, is one of Russia's most renowned artistic institutions with a rich and captivating history. Founded in 1757 by Ivan Shuvalov, an advisor to Empress Elizabeth of Russia, the academy was initially named the Imperial Academy of Arts and was established with the purpose of providing high-quality art education to Russian artists and fostering the development of the arts in the country.
Throughout its history, the academy received support from various Russian czars who recognized the importance of art education for the cultural and intellectual growth of Russia. Catherine the Great, in particular, was a significant patron of the arts and enhanced the academy's prestige. She assisted in acquiring a vast collection of European artworks and attracted talented foreign artists to teach at the institution.
The academy underwent several changes and developments over the years, but its commitment to artistic excellence remained steadfast. It played a pivotal role in shaping many of Russia's leading artists, including Ilya Repin, Ivan Aivazovsky, and Valentin Serov, who both studied and taught at the academy.
During the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Repin Academy underwent significant changes. Traditional artistic principles were questioned and transformed in favor of a more revolutionary and politically engaged approach. Many teachers and students embraced the new artistic and political guidelines, while others upheld classical artistic traditions.
During World War II, the academy suffered significant damage due to German bombings in St. Petersburg (then Leningrad). The historic building of the academy was damaged, and many of its valuable art collections were affected. However, the institution persevered and continued to play a vital role in Russian art education.
Despite the challenges throughout its history, the Repin Academy remained a center of artistic excellence and produced numerous talented artists who made significant contributions to Russian and global art. Its ability to adapt to political and social changes is a testament to its resilience and cultural importance over the years.
The admission process at the Repin Academy is highly competitive and involves several rigorous stages:
Preparation: Candidates must begin preparing in advance by developing their artistic skills and building a solid portfolio that demonstrates their creative and technical abilities. This may involve years of prior art studies.
Language Requirements: International candidates usually need to demonstrate proficiency in Russian, as most courses are taught in this language. This involves completing a Russian proficiency exam, such as the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL).
Application: Candidates must fill out a detailed application form, providing personal information, educational background, artistic experience, and a portfolio of artwork.
Admission Exam: The next stage involves a rigorous admission exam that evaluates the candidate's artistic skills and technical understanding. This typically includes drawing and painting from live models and presenting two compositions, one in black and white and the second in color.
Interview: Candidates may be interviewed by faculty members to assess their motivation, artistic goals, and commitment to studies at the academy.
Portfolio: The portfolio plays a fundamental role in the selection. It should include a variety of works, such as drawings, paintings, and other forms of artistic expression. It is important to demonstrate originality, technique, and a solid understanding of the principles of visual arts.
Admission Decision: Based on the candidate's performance during the exams, the academy makes an admission decision.
The admission process at the Repin Academy is highly selective due to its reputation as one of the leading art schools in the world. However, those who are accepted have the opportunity to receive a world-class artistic education and collaborate with renowned Russian artists and professors. It is an institution that has shaped talented artists over the centuries and continues to play a fundamental role in the global art scene.
