UPDATE: The art world mourns the recent loss of several influential figures, including Erik Bulatov, Kazuki Motoyama, and Ken Parker, who have passed away in 2025. These artists, whose work has shaped contemporary culture, are being remembered for their profound contributions and enduring legacies.
Erik Bulatov (1933–2025), a cornerstone of Russia’s contemporary art scene, has died. Bulatov was a pivotal figure in the Soviet pop art movement, co-founding the Moscow Conceptualists and the Sots art movement, which cleverly remixed Soviet slogans. In 2015, he was honored with the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French government for his artistic achievements. “I have been working on connecting the space of the painting with the space of our life,” he stated in a 2017 interview, emphasizing his dedication to bridging art and reality.
Also lost is Kazuki Motoyama (1956–2025), a renowned Japanese gaming and manga artist whose work on the 1988 video game Super Mario helped propel the titular character into global stardom. His creativity was instrumental in shaping the gaming landscape, and his influence continues to be felt today.
Architectural historian Eileen Harris (1932–2025) also passed away, leaving behind a legacy as an expert on neoclassical architect Robert Adam. Her contributions to art history and museum consultancy have left a significant mark on the field.
In the world of craftsmanship, Ken Parker (1952–2025) made waves as an iconoclastic guitar maker. His creations are not just instruments; they are pieces of art displayed at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
The art community also remembers Peter ‘Jungle’ Phillips (1956–2025), an Australian self-taught artist known for his “open gallery” home in Adelaide. His vibrant artworks, once showcasing themes of sadness, evolved towards expressions of happiness and hope, capturing the hearts of many.
Greek ceramicist and sculptor Nikos Stefanou (1933–2025) passed away, leaving a legacy as a restorer of mosaics and icons from the Daphni Monastery and Mount Athos in Athens. He also founded an artist commune, fostering creativity and collaboration among artists.
Lastly, Sharon Von Senden (1942–2025), a self-taught mosaicist, is remembered for her intricate mosaics at the City Museum in St. Louis. Her stunning sea creatures and reptiles brought life to the museum, making her a beloved figure in the art community.
As tributes pour in, the impact of these artists on their respective fields cannot be overstated. Their work and vision have inspired countless individuals, and their legacies will continue to resonate for generations.
The art world stands united in remembrance, highlighting the importance of celebrating creativity and innovation, especially in times of loss. The contributions of Bulatov, Motoyama, Parker, and their fellow artists will not be forgotten, and their stories will live on in the hearts of many.
Stay tuned for further updates on memorial events and tributes honoring these remarkable artists.
