Ilya Kabakov, a pioneer of Moscow Conceptualism, passed away on Saturday at the age of 89, according to a statement posted on the Facebook page of the Ilya and Emilia Kabakov Foundation, which is blocked in Russia because it is owned by the extremist Meta.
“We mournfully announce the passing of Ilya Kabakov, a great artist, philosopher, beloved husband, dear father and adorable grandfather. The man who dreamed of utopia throughout his life, departed this world on Saturday, May 27, surrounded by loved ones. He died shy of his 90th birthday,” the statement reads.
Since 1989, Kabakov has resided in the US. In addition to other works, he is the author of the Ten Characters series, Red Pavilion, and Incident at the Museum installations.
In 2006 and 2008, sales of his paintings Deluxe Room and The Beetle brought in $4.1 million and $5.8 million, respectively, making them the most expensive works of contemporary art ever sold in Russia.
