Artists are a special breed of human beings. Many of them live by their own rules, because the love of freedom does not allow them to fall into the daily grind and do the same thing all their lives, in the same way.

Thirty years ago, in 1992, the Bulgarian fine arts lost one of their exceptional talents – the artist Dimitar Kazakov-Neron (1933-1992). In order to secure a stable income, Kazakov has worked over the years as a poster artist, painter in a military factory and elsewhere, until he chose the life of a freelance artist in the capital. Many of the works he created were not allowed to be exhibited within socialist Bulgaria, but those he managed to present abroad were highly appreciated by the local audience. The artist had successful solo exhibitions in Greece, Switzerland, Austria, USA, France, Spain, Japan, and Kuwait.

In 1981, Dimitar Kazakov abandoned oil painting due to his severe allergy to oil paints. However, he did not think for a moment to give up painting altogether. Almost immediately he started using acrylic and watercolour paints. He also mastered the subtleties of sculpture and woodcarving. During his 59 years of life, Dimitar Kazakov bequeathed to Bulgarian art over 15,000 paintings, watercolours, graphics, drawings, sculptures and painted ceramics, and his paintings are among the most valued in Bulgaria’s art legacy.

Compiled by Yoan Kolev

English version Rositsa Petkova