While in college in Soviet Russia, I was told  that I have no talent for drawing or painting. I pursued an architectural degree and for about 20 years worked as an architect for various firms in Russia and the US. In 2009, my dream of being a  professional artist overwhelmed the practicality of a stable office job.  Fortunately, Russian architectural training mandates serious study in classical drawing and painting, laying important groundwork for the pursuit of my passion. I dedicated my time to systematic studies at classes, workshops, live model sessions, and regular studio work. In 2014,  I founded my company, Tummy Rubb Studio, and my art became a full time business. I created paintings, illustrations and public art projects. My focus now is on helping other artists to improve their artistic abilities, to give them tools to achieve their art goals, to find inspiration and courage to create. My art classes are for people who are serious about improving their skills but not interested in a rigid academic setting. I teach through simple but effective demos and exercises and work mostly with water media: watercolor, gouache and acrylic. Through my teaching experience, I am privileged to connect with thousands of artists worldwide, who in their turn help me to continue learning and growing as an artist.​​​​​​​