PEOPLE 'Mark Ov' a genius

'MARK OV' A GENIUS

Amazed by the small exhibition we found in the Real Marina Hotel and Spa in Olhão (located left of the reception), we set out to locate and discover more about this very talented painter. It was not an easy feat as our subject is not one to show off or think grand things about himself, ‘humble’ is the word that comes to mind. He told us he just loves to paint. Roman Markov originally from the Ukraine moved to Portugal some 20 years ago and after 2 years he met his wife, also a Ukrainian native and they now have the most precious and cute little girl. He is a real family man. In the Ukraine, Roman painted from a very early age,

We meet the incredible Roman Markov, a Ukranian artist and long term resident of Faro always enjoying the ability to create something beautiful from nothing but the imagination. Later he studied and trained as an art teacher, he taught woodwork and ceramic craft classes to his young students. We asked if painting ran in the family, Roman laughed a little and told us it did not, his father did paint a tiny amount, but spent his time working as a detective. What we love about the paintings Roman does is the variety in styles, he explains that he is constantly developing what he does and currently is enjoying creating playful pieces from his imagination, such as the one we have featured to adorn the cover of this month’s magazine. He says this type of work is a challenge as it is not based on a photo or real-life scene. It takes more

effort and time to create these images and find the shapes that compliment the subject, rather than detract from the focal point. Roman uses Acrylic and Oils on canvas as his medium, he paints everyday, but takes a break on Saturdays. Most paintings are of the East Algarve and are central to the beaches and harbours. In fact, several of his paintings include old boats that have vanished from existence, yet still captured on his canvases. What astounds us the most, are the low prices he charges for his artwork, his smaller pieces start at €25. It is easy to see how his modest nature is reflected back in the small prices he charges. We asked why he does not charge more for his paintings, the answer was simply that he wants his artwork to be affordable for all, not just the elite and those with deep pockets. You can find a display of his artwork in Artina in Tavira, Real Marina Hotel and Spa in Olhão, Moldular in Faro and he is often in Loulé on the market. In August there will be an additional exhibition in Albufeira. The best way to contact Roman is through his Facebook page, @roman.markov His website boasts much of his work and is also well worth a visit: www.romanmarkov.com