Guida Mikhail - Ukrainian artist
Guida Mikhail (also - Guida Mykhaylo; born December 18, 1954) is a significant Ukrainian artist, a master of painting and graphic arts, whose work is deeply rooted in national tradition while simultaneously embracing global artistic trends. His substantial contribution to Ukrainian visual art has been recognized with high honors: People's Artist of Ukraine (2001), Honored Artist of Ukraine (1991), and a full member of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine (2001).
Guida's artistic education began at the Kyiv State Art Institute (now the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture), where he graduated in 1982 under the guidance of the distinguished painter Viktor Shatalin. He furthered his knowledge through postgraduate studies at the Ilya Repin Leningrad Institute of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, in the studio of Viktor Oreshnikov.
Since 1982, Mikhail Guida has been inextricably linked with the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture (NAFAA), where he progressed from lecturer to professor (1995) and head of the studio painting workshop (since 1993). His pedagogical activity plays a vital role in nurturing new generations of Ukrainian artists.
In addition to his active creative and teaching work, Mikhail Guida has held responsible positions in artistic organizations, including serving as the head of the Kyiv branch of the Union of Artists of Ukraine (1989–1993) and as a secretary of the Union of Artists of the USSR.
Mikhail Guyda's artistic output is distinguished by an original style that blends classical aesthetics with contemporary painting trends. Researchers note a profound connection between his early works and his Cossack heritage, which is vividly expressed in his significant painting "Remembrance" ("Pominannia") (1990). The leading themes in his art are nature, humanity, and the history of Ukraine.
Mikhail Guida actively participates in numerous national and international art exhibitions. His solo exhibitions have been successfully held in Ukraine, the USA, Italy, Poland, and China. He also holds the title of Honorary Professor at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology and the University of Natural Sciences and Technologies (China).
Recognition of his talent includes numerous awards and honors, among them:
- Honorary Diploma of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (2005)
- Gold Medal of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine (2004)
- Ivan Ohienko Prize (2000)
- Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine (2016) for the cycle of paintings "In a Unified Space," which affirms humanistic ideals and the beauty of Ukrainian land.
The artist has made a significant contribution to the development of cultural and artistic ties between Ukraine and China, and his works are held in museum, gallery, and private collections worldwide.
