Local Gallery Exhibits Scenes of Libertyville

Lev Kublanov admits his English may not be perfect, having lived most of his life in Russia. But he uses his eye as an architect and an artist to replicate Libertyville’s distinct architecture on canvas.

Born in Russia, Kublanov worked for more than 20 years in architectural design firms in Moscow. But he became tired designing monotonous apartment buildings and offices, and began to bring three-dimensional structures and landscapes to canvas.

Kublanov moved to Mundelein 13 years ago and met the previous owner of , who started to display his work.

Scenes of Libertyville

When John Timony took over the gallery, he asked Kublanov if he would create portraits that showcase Libertyville. Kublanov said he offers a different perspective because he has not lived in the community.

“I like to bring people my view of this. Maybe I see something more than people would,” he said. “For me, it’s new.”

Kublanov designed 24 images as part of a series titled Scenes of Libertyville. Among the scenes are , and businesses along Milwaukee Avenue. Timony said in one portrait, Lev gives another viewpoint of Libertyville. He said most artists would stand on Milwaukee Avenue and show the walkways toward the alley.

“Lev stood from the back parking lot and looked toward Milwaukee because by doing that, you see all this interesting architecture that you don’t see from the other side,” Timony said.

Kublanov said like many villages, the buildings do not depict one style but a mix of styles.

“The buildings enrich each other,” he said.

Creating an inviting scene

Kublanov said in Europe people like the texture and design to be depicted only in black and white. But for S, Kublanov incorporated pastel colors. He said here in America, the viewer likes color to create a more inviting piece.

“I add a little bit of color because the people here want to see it,” he said.

In addition to 8-by-10 and 11-by-14 pictures, Timony said the gallery chose eight images to create note cards and four images to design marble coasters.

Timony said the gallery offers a unique gift that represents Libertyville. For previous residents or visitors, they want to own something that captures their identity with the place. He added many customers want to meet Kublanov after buying his work so they also can make a connection to the artist.

“The piece becomes more than just what is in front of them. They will remember Lev, his accent that becomes a part of the painting,” Timony said.

Kublanov added, “I see many people buy my small pieces. It shows me I might have success. Not big, but it’s enough.”

Kublanov’s works can be purchased at the Curtis Frame Back Alley Gallery at 543 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville.

For information, call (847) 362-2848 or visit www.curtisframe.com.