In the heart of Siberia lies a small village renowned as the epicenter of wooden house-building, home to some of Russia’s finest carpenters. From this humble yet vibrant backdrop emerges Vil Aptyushev, a masterful wood artist whose journey is as captivating as his creations. Known for his intricate wood carvings, Vil’s work carries the essence of Siberian culture, bringing animals and nature to life in a way that feels magical and alive.
The Call of Wood
For Vil, wood was not just a material—it was destiny. “You could say I didn’t choose wood; wood chose me,” he reflects. Surrounded by a community steeped in the tradition of wooden craftsmanship, Vil naturally gravitated toward this medium. After years as a newspaper editor-in-chief, he sought a more creative outlet and turned to carving as a way of life.
His first masterpiece—a carved panel of owls nestled in a hollow—was created as a gift for his friend, artist Igor Goncharov. This talismanic piece marked the beginning of his artistic journey. “Igor hung this panel on the wall of his house, and I posted the photo on Etsy. The orders poured in,” Vil recalls.
However, his thriving online business faced an abrupt challenge in February 2022 due to sanctions against Russia. Platforms like Etsy were no longer accessible. Yet, Vil turned adversity into opportunity by delving into video production. His videos showcasing the carving process garnered millions of views and introduced his art to clients across 15 countries, including government officials and corporate leaders.
Siberian Cedar: A Magical Medium
Vil’s artistry is deeply intertwined with the unique qualities of Siberian cedar, a wood revered for its carving potential and global demand. His process begins with a simple cedar board, which he transforms into lifelike sculptures through a labor-intensive combination of carving and realistic coloring.
“People often say my works are alive, magical. This isn’t accidental. I communicate with my characters as I carve, giving them a vital impulse,” Vil explains. His subjects—bears, owls, raccoons, and wolves—are imbued with stories and emotions, from playful bear cubs climbing a log to tender wolves embracing each other.
The Artistic Philosophy
Vil’s creations go beyond mere aesthetics. They are a celebration of life and nature, infused with a philosophy that art should inspire and uplift. “When you look at my work, you should feel like living,” he says.
Nature, Vil’s greatest muse, plays a pivotal role in his work. The sprawling Siberian landscapes fuel his creativity, and the energy of nature is evident in every carving. His art captures not only the beauty of animals but also the spirit of his surroundings.
Sustainability and Legacy
As a wood artist, Vil is deeply conscious of sustainability. His choice of Siberian cedar reflects a respect for the environment and a commitment to working with natural materials responsibly. By drawing inspiration from the world around him, Vil creates art that bridges tradition and innovation, preserving Siberian craftsmanship while appealing to a global audience.
A Bright Future
Today, Vil Aptyushev works are in high demand, with orders booked a year in advance. His videos continue to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the magic of wood carving art. Through challenges and triumphs, Vil Aptyushev remains a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and passion.
Vil’s journey from a Siberian village to becoming one of the best wood artists from Russia is a story of transformation and inspiration—a reminder that even in the face of obstacles, art can thrive and bring joy to countless lives.
Виль Аптюшев 🇷🇺 Vil Aptyushev
