Vadim Bora

1954 - 2011

Master Sculptor, painter, teacher, and philosopher Vadim Bora left this mortal coil Jan. 5 after complications from a catastrophic stroke. Born in Beslan, Russia in the Republic of North Ossetia, April 9, 1954, Vadim is an internationally recognized artist whose styles and media know no bounds. From oil landscapes, portraits, and allegorical narratives to emotive pen and ink line drawings, from fine silver engraving to monumental sculptures, Vadim's art reflects the complex genius of the man. His public works of art grace the streets, museums and institutions of Asheville, Fort Wayne, and Vladikavkaz, Russia. Private and corporate collections in dozens of countries retain his works as well.

A born artist, Vadim has created since the age of 3. He attended the College of Art of Vladikavaz, as well as the acclaimed St. Petersburg Academy of Art and became a young member of the Artists Union of Russia. He came to Asheville in 1993, later awarded permanent residency by the US government under the coveted status of "Person with Extraordinary Abilities." In 2008 he elected to become a naturalized American Citizen. In 1998 he opened Vadim Bora Gallery & Studio in downtown Asheville fostering others' careers by hosting local and international artist's exhibitions and exchanges, some from as far afoot as Mongolia, Russia, Georgia, Bosnia, Cuba, and Italy. A professional of the highest caliber, and always the teacher, Vadim instructed privately from his studio, cultivating many a young (and older) artist, and most recently was sculpture instructor at the classical realist school The Fine Arts League of the Carolinas.

An ‘exuberant expressionist' in art and in life, Vadim's personality was as vibrant as his paintings. He was a friend and mentor to many, with a big heart, a generous soul, and wise words. A voracious reader and lover of intelligent debate, he did not suffer fools lightly. But welcomed all into his studio ("the artist's kitchen" he called it) for a cup of tea and perhaps something stronger, gifting visitors with conversation and ebullient stories when taking a break from the easel.

A man of the world, with the ability to communicate across language and cultural barriers, Vadim loved Paris and Berlin (where East meets West) in particular, and proudly carried the imprint of his ethnic Ossetian heritage of the Caucasus Mountains mixed with the vitality and independence of the New World -- his adopted home of America.

He leaves behind his wife, Constance, son Georgi of NYC, brothers German and Felix of Russia, in-laws Ken and Irene Richards, and scores of friends, colleagues, collectors, patrons and admirers on five continents. The artist lives eternally through his works, and his legacy will be carried on by his family.

Honoring Vadim's wishes, a private burial with the family will be conducted. To provide an opportunity for all to share their feelings in the manner he would wish, the family will host friends, students, colleagues, patrons and family at Vadim Bora Gallery on Battery Park Avenue between 4-8 p.m. on Russian New Year, Friday, January 14. A Grand Celebration of Vadim's Life and Art, following a cultural tradition of waiting 40 days, will take place for all. Time,date and place to be announced.

To honor the artist and further his work, in lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be forwarded to the Fine Arts League of the Carolinas to establish the VADIM BORA SCHOLARSHIP FUND, 362 Depot St., Asheville, NC 28801; or to Asheville Sister Cities, Vladikavkaz Committee, P.O. Box 2214, Asheville, NC 28802.