Bio

Meyer Uranovsky, born in 1939 in Cape Town, South Africa, emerged as a bold artistic force from an early age. Raised by Russian émigré parents, Uranovsky found a profound connection to the arts, eventually pursuing formal education at the Michaelis School of Fine Art, University of Cape Town. His unique style, grounded in German Expressionism, quickly garnered attention for its potent combination of raw energy and intricate detail.

Uranovsky held his first solo exhibition in 1966 to critical acclaim, with all works sold within the opening week. This success marked the beginning of a flourishing career, with exhibitions across South Africa, France, and the United States. Among his accolades, Uranovsky received a post-graduate bursary to study at Hayter’s prestigious Atelier 17 in Paris, where he further developed his technique. His work was later showcased at the Museés de Nice in France, and he earned the L'Aigle de Bronze at the Grand Prix International d'Arts Plastiques in 1990.

In 1996, Uranovsky relocated to the United States, where his art continued to attract audiences. Exhibitions at renowned venues, including the Clockwork-Apple Gallery in New York, Circle Gallery at Adelphi University, and the Salena Gallery at Long Island University, established his reputation stateside. Notably, in 2006, he was honored by the Borough President of the Bronx for his significant contributions to the art and culture of New York City.

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Education

Meyer Uranovsky’s journey in the arts began formally at the Michaelis School of Fine Art at the University of Cape Town, where his fascination with art took root. A post-graduate bursary allowed him to study at Hayter’s Atelier 17 in Paris, where he refined his techniques in both etching and painting, which significantly influenced his later works.

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Inspiration

Uranovsky’s early influences stemmed from his studies in anatomy and pathology, where he found a fascination with the cellular patterns and pulsations of life. This inspiration is apparent in the texture and energy of his work, as he translates chaotic, expressive marks into coherent, lifelike forms. He draws further inspiration from strong female figures and individuals challenging societal norms, which can be seen in his recurring themes of resilience and liberation, as well as his portrayals of figures such as Iranian protestors and Afghan activists.

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Sensibility

With a foundation in German Expressionism, Uranovsky’s sensibility combines raw, gestural brushwork with an intense, psychological depth reminiscent of Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon. His work often explores the lyrical beauty of femininity alongside the darker themes of political oppression. This duality—grace intertwined with grit—gives his art a palpable complexity that resonates on both visual and emotional levels.

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Work

Uranovsky’s art centers around the human form, with a particular focus on figures that embody strength, resilience, and a raw, emotive quality. His works often begin as chaotic splashes, applied with inexpensive brushes or even his fingers, which he transforms into striking, lifelike forms. Through acrylics and charcoal, Uranovsky breathes life into his figures, capturing both their vitality and their vulnerability in each portrait. His subjects range from sensual female figures to resolute political icons, allowing him to convey complex emotions and universal themes through his transformative mark-making process.

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Current Work

Now based in the United States, Uranovsky continues to explore new dimensions within his art. Reflecting on a career that spans decades, he is driven by the belief that his work will find a lasting place on the world stage. Uranovsky’s current focus involves deepening his exploration of the human condition, with a vision of pushing his signature style into new realms of form and freedom.

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Artist’s Statement

"Transforming marks, uncontrolled marks like a wild horse. I then turn this wildness into something that’s very alive that emerges like a real smile, lips, something that looks like life to me."

In every brushstroke, Uranovsky’s pieces convey a relationship with his subjects that transcends the visual—a connection he nurtures as he imbues each portrait with life and character. His art is both a personal journey and a universal invitation to viewers, asking them to confront the complexities of the human spirit. Through his transformative approach, he captures figures that are not only visually compelling but resonant with life and emotional depth.