Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Candy clouds

Name Class Date

Nikita Plushedelica, Candy clouds (2016). Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Nikita Plushedelica artsdot.com/en/artists/nikita-plushedelica/
Artist’s dates
1985 –
Painted
2016

In context

Candy clouds — Nikita Plushedelica

When was this painted?

  1. 1980
  2. 1990
  3. 2000
  4. 2010

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span, counting 0 from birth.

Painted when the artist was 31. 0 of the 1 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

▲ this work, 2016 every dated painting, decade by decade

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Teal #085793

    Catalogued palette

    • #085793
    • #DCDBD5
    • #285515
    • #CC8E4D

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Neutrals The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Teal
    Intensity
    Vivid How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Discordant Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Nikita Plushedelica

    Born in Moscow, Russia

    Nikita Plushedelica: A Rising Star of Contemporary Russian Art

    Born in Moscow in 1985, Nikita Plushedelica has swiftly emerged as a compelling voice within the contemporary art scene, both in Russia and internationally. His work defies easy categorization, seamlessly blending elements of illustration, street art, and mixed media to create vibrant, layered pieces that resonate with urban energy and a distinctly modern sensibility. Plushedelica’s journey began amidst the dynamic cultural landscape of Moscow, an environment that undoubtedly fueled his early explorations of visual expression. While initially rooted in traditional artistic practices, he quickly developed a unique style characterized by bold colors, intricate details, and a captivating interplay between realism and abstraction.

    Early Influences and Artistic Development

    Plushedelica’s artistic development is deeply intertwined with the vibrant street art scene of Moscow. Exposure to this raw, unfiltered form of expression during his formative years profoundly shaped his approach to composition, color theory, and the use of public space as a canvas. However, he doesn't simply replicate street art techniques; instead, he absorbs its spirit of immediacy and accessibility while elevating it through meticulous craftsmanship and conceptual depth. Early influences also extend to digital illustration – a medium he skillfully employs to generate textures, patterns, and intricate designs that often form the foundation of his mixed media works. The influence of Russian Constructivism, with its emphasis on geometric abstraction and social commentary, is subtly present in some of his later pieces, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of art history.

    A Fusion of Mediums: Illustration, Street Art, and Mixed Media

    What distinguishes Plushedelica’s work is its masterful integration of diverse mediums. He frequently begins with detailed illustrations – often character designs or intricate patterns – which then serve as the basis for larger mixed media pieces. These works are rarely confined to a single surface; they incorporate elements of collage, painting, and even sculptural components, creating tactile and visually arresting experiences. The use of layering is particularly significant, allowing him to build narratives that unfold gradually as the viewer’s eye moves across the artwork. His illustrations often feature fantastical creatures and surreal landscapes, hinting at underlying themes of identity, memory, and the human condition.

    Illustration: Forms the core of many pieces, providing detailed imagery and foundational patterns.

    Street Art Techniques: Incorporated through spray paint effects, stencil work, and a sense of urban grit.

    Mixed Media Collage: Utilizes found objects, paper textures, and various materials to add depth and tactile interest.

    Themes and Symbolism in Plushedelica’s Work

    While Plushedelica's work is visually arresting, it also carries a subtle layer of meaning. Recurring motifs – such as fragmented figures, distorted perspectives, and symbolic landscapes – suggest explorations of memory, identity, and the complexities of modern life. His pieces often evoke a sense of nostalgia for lost connections or a questioning of established narratives. There’s a palpable tension between order and chaos, beauty and decay, reflecting the inherent contradictions of the contemporary world. The artist himself has spoken about drawing inspiration from personal experiences and observations of urban environments, translating these into visual metaphors that invite contemplation.

    Recognition and Future Directions

    Nikita Plushedelica’s work has garnered increasing recognition within the Russian art community and beyond. Exhibitions in Moscow and other cities have showcased his distinctive style to a wider audience, solidifying his position as a rising star. His pieces are currently featured on platforms like WahooArt.com, offering collectors worldwide access to his captivating creations. Looking ahead, Plushedelica continues to experiment with new techniques and explore ambitious themes, suggesting that he will remain a dynamic and innovative force in the contemporary art landscape for years to come. His unique blend of influences and technical skill promises a continued evolution of his artistic vision.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Candy clouds

    artsdot.com/en/art/download/nikita-plushedelica-candy-clouds-D9U5S3-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Plushedelica, Nikita. Candy clouds. 2016, https://artsdot.com/en/art/nikita-plushedelica-candy-clouds-D9U5S3-en/
    APA
    Plushedelica, Nikita (2016). Candy clouds [Painting]. https://artsdot.com/en/art/nikita-plushedelica-candy-clouds-D9U5S3-en/
    Chicago
    Nikita Plushedelica. Candy clouds. 2016. https://artsdot.com/en/art/nikita-plushedelica-candy-clouds-D9U5S3-en/
    Harvard
    Plushedelica, Nikita (2016) Candy clouds. Available at: https://artsdot.com/en/art/nikita-plushedelica-candy-clouds-D9U5S3-en/

    Look closely

    Candy clouds — Nikita Plushedelica

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Nikita Plushedelica was about 31 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?
    4. What might the artist have wanted you to feel?
    5. If you could ask the artist one question about this work, what would it be?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Questions & Answers

    How strong are the colors of "Candy clouds"?

    The colors of "Candy clouds" by Nikita Plushedelica show a balanced soft saturation with a vivid intensity.

    What color harmony does "Candy clouds" by Nikita Plushedelica display?

    The color harmony of "Candy clouds" is recorded as discordant palette.

    Which color stands out most in "Candy clouds"?

    The dominant color of "Candy clouds" by Nikita Plushedelica is teal (#085793).