{"title":"Anton Yukashev","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0798\/0820\/0950\/files\/56EA7725-1BA2-495B-B7D2-49EC4160073A_480x480.png?v=1778324097\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnton Yakushev is an internationally recognized sculptor and master blacksmith based in Bend, Oregon. Originally from Russia, Yakushev combines traditional forging techniques with contemporary sculptural design to create works that blur the line between mechanical engineering and living form. His sculptures—ranging from monumental insects and animals to mythic figures and abstract forms—are celebrated for their intricate craftsmanship, expressive movement, and narrative depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYakushev’s work has been exhibited internationally and is held in both private and institutional collections, including the National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. Known for his collaborative projects with the Central Oregon Metal Arts Guild (COMAG), he has become a leading figure in contemporary forged metal sculpture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSeveryanin\u003c\/em\u003e (“Of the North”), the monumental praying mantis sculpture featured here, was designed by Yakushev and collaboratively forged with COMAG artists during a multi-day workshop in Bend, Oregon.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"severyanin","title":"Severyanin","description":"\u003cp\u003ePraying Mantis, Collaborative Sculpture - Not For Sale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnton Yukashev's \"Severyanin\" represents a pivotal moment in contemporary metal sculpture, where precision engineering meets organic form. This collaborative work draws inspiration from the praying mantis—a creature embodying stillness, focus, and predatory grace. Yukashev's internationally recognized practice transforms industrial materials into contemplative forms that challenge viewers to reconsider the boundary between nature and artifice. The sculpture emerges from Yukashev's signature approach: meticulous fabrication combined with an almost meditative attention to negative space and silhouette. \"Severyanin\" captures the mantis in a moment of poised anticipation, its angular geometry suggesting both vulnerability and power. The collaborative nature of the piece reflects Yukashev's commitment to dialogue—between artist and material, between concept and execution, between the viewer's expectation and the work's quiet presence. This work exemplifies Yukashev's broader exploration of how metal can embody living forms without mimicry, creating instead a visual language that honors both the creature and the medium. \"Severyanin\" invites sustained looking, rewarding close attention with layers of artistry that unfold across different viewing distances and angles.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Anton Yakushev","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50556277162230,"sku":null,"price":52000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0798\/0820\/0950\/files\/IMG_8366_5e868e9c-c065-41ce-921c-239aa5a063e3.jpg?v=1778319656"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0798\/0820\/0950\/collections\/IMG-8625.jpg?v=1778320230","url":"https:\/\/www.riverrungallery.com\/collections\/anton-yukashev.oembed","provider":"The River Run Gallery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}