Short Biography

Aleksey Pandzharov (23 September 1954 – 26 March 2015)

My whole life story (like those of many colleagues) can be reduced to the dramatic attempt to stand up to the impossibility not to work to make a living and to the same impossibility to stop painting.

— Aleksey Pandzharov

Born in Sofia, Bulgaria. He graduated with a degree in Painting from “St. Cyril and St. Methodius” University of Veliko Tarnovo.

He lived and worked in Sliven, where he held his first solo exhibition. It was there that he developed and firmly established his distinctive artistic style. Later in life, he lived in Ruse.

His life was not easy. He did not rely on influential connections or patronage, but solely on his talent and on certain undeniable principles of painting. In a world where the more adaptable often survive, he chose to remain true to himself and to his art.

His paintings carry more than images, colours, and landscapes — they carry a spirit, a sense of something Divine. Some of his works are held in private collections in Bulgaria and abroad.

He used to say:

“In any case, what matters more is not to be a beautiful carrot, but simply a carrot.”

He did not wish to be a “good” artist according to others’ expectations, but a true artist — exactly as he was.

Loved by his family, he was a devoted husband and a dedicated father to his two children. Those close to him remember with affection his subtle sense of humour. Respected as an artist, he left behind works through which his talent continues to live on.