Today we’d like to introduce you to Anton Shaporov
Hi Anton, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Seventeen years ago, I arrived in America from Kazakhstan. The first few years were tough. I didn’t speak English, so I had to work as a housekeeper and dishwasher. Most of the time, I smiled, nodded and used my newly created awkward sign language, and often pretended to understand, but the hardest part was grasping American humor. I found myself in situations where everyone laughed expect me, and all I could say was, ‘I am not from here,” which somehow made people laugh even more.
Despite the struggles, I was determine to learn English as quickly as possible. I wanted to be equal, to have an ability to express myself and build my life in my new home. With the help of incredible people who supported me, I adapted and learned. I still remember the taste of that glass of wine, when I pour to myself in celebration, finishing reading my first book in English- Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden.
Then, seven years ago, I decided to try painting. I have always loved trying new things, so one day, I marched into a store, loaded up on oil paint, canvases, and brushes, and went home feeling unstoppable – possibly under the influence of another glass of wine. Ready to put my first stroke on the canvas, I suddenly realized I had no idea what I was doing. Refusing to give up, with no mentor, no plan, just stubborn (and slightly delusional) belief that I could figure it out, I taught myself through books, videos, and endless trial and error. Then Art became my obsession.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I see how every challenge shaped me. From struggling to speak a new language to finding my voice through art. Everything is possible, and it is just a beginning.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the weirdest challenges has been this strange limbo where I started forgetting the country I came from but also didn’t quite feel fully part of this one.
I have also been on a lifelong quest to figure out the right way to communicate effectively. It is like a personality rollercoaster, and I never know what version of me is going to be “just right.” Maybe that is why art became so close to my heart. It gives me a way to say everything I can’t put into words – no feedback, no misunderstanding, just pure expression on canvas.
Painting, especially in abstract in an abstract style, has its own challenges. It forces you to explore your emotions, and sometimes, by accident, you uncover things that were probably better left hidden. Recovering from these sessions can be tough.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
“I paint like a fool who laughs at his own jokes”
Art has long been accompanied by grand statements on inspiration, technique, and vision. As for me? At this point of time, I have no clear answer. I pick up a brush to find out.
My works is shaped by the emotions and memories of everyday life – the moments that hurt, the ones that bring joy, the ones that linger. I collect these feelings, store them, and translate them into the canvas. Each painting is an exploration-sometimes starting with a plan, more often with uncertainty, and almost often with a healthy dose of self-doubt. There are the times when it feels like a complete disaster, but step by step, stroke by stroke, it somehow comes to life. And when it does, I get to sit back, amazed that my own hand created something beautiful out of thin air.
I am a lifelong student, servant of art, constantly learning, evolving, and searching. My ultimate hope? That one day, I will finally understand how Rembrandt pulled off his masterpieces. Until then, I will just keep painting and laugh at my own jokes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ashaporov.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/antonshaporovart
