Who is Roman Goncharenko: Surreal Digital Artist of Fantasy and Adventure

Unexplainable Longing © Roman Goncharenko

BY MARK ANDERSON

London-based Ukrainian digital artist Roman Goncharenko takes viewers into a world where the boundaries between surrealism, science fiction, and fantasy blur, offering a visual feast that combines the whimsical with the profound. His works are characterized by an otherworldly blend of vibrant colors, surreal compositions, and dynamic movement that evoke everything from wonder and fear to nostalgia and introspection.

Spectrum of Possibilities © Roman Goncharenko

Goncharenko’s digital canvases are filled with colorful mists, gas clouds, and windstorms that envelop peculiar and hilarious objects ranging from planets and astronauts to ice cream and even deliciously baked turkeys. This eclectic mix creates a dreamlike quality reminiscent of wild dreams or vivid ayahuasca hallucinations. His use of digital brushstrokes is soft and flowing, contributing to the ethereal and transient nature of his pieces.

The artist’s palette is diverse and impactful. Dark purples, bright fuchsias, blacks, and grays dominate many of his works, creating a stark contrast that adds depth and intensity. Other pieces feature a blend of orangy-browns with grayish blues or vibrant greens, showcasing his ability to manipulate color to evoke different moods and atmospheres. Swirls and high-rising clouds often populate his works, enhancing the sense of movement and energy.

Goncharenko’s style draws heavily from the psychedelic art movement and the visual aesthetics of 1970s sci-fi and fantasy literature. His works bear a resemblance to the covers of Robert A. Heinlein’s novels, with their galactic storms, electrical impulses, alien tentacles, and strange monsters. This nostalgic influence is balanced with a contemporary digital execution, resulting in a unique fusion of past and present.

One of the most captivating aspects of Goncharenko’s art is its dynamic nature. Each piece seems to pulsate with life, inviting the viewer to get lost in its swirling forms and vibrant colors. The powerful sense of movement is palpable, making his works not just visually appealing but also emotionally engaging. They provoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, urging the viewer to explore the unknown realms he has created.

While Roman’s digital art is professional and original, he faces significant competition from artificial intelligence, which can generate similar images. In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, artists like Goncharenko must continually push their originality and unique ideas to the limit. It is through this relentless pursuit of innovation and creativity that he can stay one step ahead, ensuring that his art remains distinctive and impactful.

Blurred Visions of Now © Roman Goncharenko

Roman Goncharenko’s talent is undeniable. His ability to create such intricate and mesmerizing digital paintings at the early stages of his career speaks volumes about his potential. As he continues to push the boundaries of his imagination and technical skills, there is no doubt that his art will become increasingly noteworthy.

Roman Goncharenko was born in 1997 in Svetlovodsk, Ukraine. He grew up in a family that valued both practical skills and creativity—his father, Alexander, was a fisherman, and his mother, Lyudmila, an accountant. His artistic journey began in earnest when he enrolled at the Alexandria School of Culture at the age of 15, graduating with honors and laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors. In 2022, Roman moved to London, where he continues to hone his craft and engage with the vibrant art community. His journey has been marked by numerous exhibitions, starting with hand-drawn works and evolving into fully digital showcases.

BY MARK ANDERSON

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