Miniatures by Salavat Fidai Art
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How and why did you first get started in pencil lead sculptures?
Six months ago, I began to carve pencils after I was inspired by the work of Dalton Ghetti from the States. I had no experience before early 2015. Now, I really enjoy creating tiny sculptures on pencils. Mostly I’ve been sculpting heroes and cartoon characters.
Describe your process and inspiration.
The concept for my paintings or sculptures starts to take form while I’m asleep. The next day, I look for photos and video material, and then I make sketches or layouts. When I work with oil on canvas, it’s more emotional and expressive. If I paint acrylic on seeds, it’s hard work and more detail oriented. When I carve sculptures from pencils, it’s much more meditative.
I do a lot of reading, and go to other artists’ exhibitions. Sometimes it’s my dreams, sometimes it is the artwork of other artists, such as Vincent Van Gogh. I am inspired by music. I get most of my paintings done late at night when my family is asleep. I’m a total night owl. I find myself more productive and it’s much easier to focus at night.
Did you ever make miniatures in another medium?
Previously, I made sculptures out of wood and stone, but these were of normal size. I also create miniatures on seeds and matchbooks.
What has been the most difficult miniature sculpture to carve?
I tried Darth Vader seven times. Some Vader heads broke during the carving. It took so many tries to achieve a final product I liked, and now I love it!
Favorite artists?
Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet.
What inspires you?
Good movies, books by contemporary authors, Marvel and DC comics, Pixar Animation Studios, and more great artwork.
Most treasured pencil tip sculpture you’ve created?
WALL-E and the PPSH-41 gun.
What tools do you use to make your sculptures?
Small, sharp craft knifes and a magnifying glass.
Tool you can’t live without?
Maybe my craft knife or my favorite brush, Kolinsky Sable number 0. I experiment with different tools, but I think I would be happy creating art out of anything.
Upcoming exhibitions planned?
Yes, of course. Big exhibitions in China and Italy.
New sculptures you’d like to mention?
It’s a secret. All I will say is “large sculptures and installations.”
What other activities do you enjoy?
Spending time with my family: going to the cinema, walking, and hiking.
Advice for beginner artists?
Do not be afraid to experiment with new materials. View more work by other artists and learn from them.
Salavat hails from Ufa in Russia. For more of his incredible micro-mini sculptures, visit his website, shop on Etsy, check out Instagram, Facebook or Behance.
