Project Overview

"Syncretism | Rose and Infinity" is an artistic publication created for Pavel Semchenko's exhibition at the Moscow gallery "Solyanka". The book elegantly blends visual art, philosophical dialogue and introspective monologues, offering a rich exploration of Semchenko's world of thought and creativity. It features artworks from different periods of Pavel Semchenko's career, thoughtfully combined with short reflective texts written by the artist himself.

Concept & Content

At the heart of the book is a profound philosophical conversation between artist Pavel Semchenko and his student, director Maxim Didenko. The dialogue navigates abstract concepts of existence, perception and infinite complexity, symbolised by the rose that captures the essence of the exhibition. Each artwork in the book is accompanied by personal reflections by Semchenko, giving the reader a unique insight into the artist's creative process, thoughts and emotional landscapes.

Design & Typography

The book has been designed with great attention to detail, typography and the relationship between text and images. The layout is deliberately spacious, minimalist and sophisticated, highlighting the artwork and allowing the reader to focus deeply on the philosophical content. Clean serif fonts complement the thoughtful typesetting, creating visual harmony.

Binding & Physical Form

Two different versions of the book have been produced:

Open Softcover:

This visually intriguing version features an exposed spine with technical binding marks that cleverly form Pavel Semchenko's artistic pseudonym "P.PA" ("П.ПА"). The open binding technique emphasises craftsmanship and creativity, allowing the construction of the book itself to become part of the artistic experience.

Hardcover Edition:

The hardcover edition presents a more classic approach, with sturdy overlapping covers that offer tactile satisfaction and durability. It maintains the minimalist aesthetic of the project and prominently features Semchenko's artwork.

Artwork & Aesthetic

Semchenko's artworks, featured throughout the publication, are abstract, contemplative and deeply symbolic. A range of artistic techniques — painting, mixed media, watercolour and printmaking — demonstrate the artist's versatility. The symbolic imagery (such as hands intertwined with roses, abstract figures and mysterious motifs) evokes themes of identity, existentialism and spiritual introspection, underscoring the central themes of syncretism and infinity.

Exhibition & Book Relationship

The book serves not only as an exhibition catalogue, but as an integral part of the exhibition itself. It extends the physical gallery space, offering viewers deeper connections to the art, philosophy and personal reflections that drive Pavel Semchenko's practice.

“Syncretism | Rose and Infinity” represents a carefully considered and aesthetically cohesive project that integrates philosophical thought, visual arts, and literary depth into a distinctive publication. The book embodies an intellectual exploration while also offering an emotional, artistic journey-bridging art and philosophy seamlessly.

You can find out more about the artist by visiting his official website: AKHE

Photographer: Andrey Terebenin / terebenin@hotmail.com
Video courtesy of "ГРАУНД Солянка" (Moscow)