Vladimir Malagis

Painter, graphic artist. Born in the Latvian town of Grivo (now part of the city of Daugavpils) in the family of Ilya Malagis (1902). Grew up in poverty. In his youth painted movie bills and studied drawing at the Society for the Encouragement of the Arts. Enrolled at the former Imperial Academy of Arts (1917), but left the famished city and opened a studio of art in White Russia. Joined the Red Army, trained to become an officer. Returned to Petrograd (1919). Studied at the School of Drawing of the Society for the Encouragement of the Arts (1918), under Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin at the VKhUTEMAS/VKhUTEIN (1919–24) and on Yevgeny Lanceray’s courses (1932–33). Taught in a studio for workers (from 1924), drew illustrations and posters for publishing houses. Founded the Circle of Artists as a Leningrad equivalent of the Society of Easel Artists in Moscow (1926). Painted propaganda panels and organised exhibitions during the Siege of Leningrad, helped artists and their families to survive as secretary of the Union of Artists. Died in Leningrad and buried at the Leningrad Crematorium Cemetery (1974). Contributed to exhibitions (from 1925).