Academy of Fine Arts

academy, Saint Petersburg, Russia

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June 26, 2026

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The Imperial Academy of Arts, established in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1757, was a pivotal institution for art education. Initially guided by foreign artists, it trained notable Russian portraitists. The academy's founding marked a significant shift towards Western artistic influence in Russia, moving away from traditional Byzantine styles. This institution played a crucial role in shaping Russian art for over two centuries, influencing its aesthetic standards and providing a platform for exhibitions, which became essential for artists' success in a changing art market.123

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Western painting
Russia
In 1757 the Academy of Fine Arts was founded in St. Petersburg, and foreign artists—mostly French—were invited to direct the new school. They trained some remarkable domestic portraitists, such as Ivan Argunov, Anton Losenko, and Fyodor Rokotov. Their works reflected the ceremonial character of Elizabeth’s tastes and showed…
Read More
In 1757 the Academy of Fine Arts was founded in St. Petersburg, and foreign artists—mostly French—were invited to direct the new school. They trained some remarkable domestic portraitists, such as Ivan Argunov, Anton Losenko, and Fyodor Rokotov. Their works reflected the ceremonial character of Elizabeth’s tastes and showed…
Read More