Zorikto Dorzhiev was born in 1976 in Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Republic of Buryatia, Russia. In 1996, he graduated from the College of Culture and Arts of the Republic of Buryatia with a major in Painting. Then, in 2002, he completed his studies at the Krasnoyarsk State Art Institute . Between 2003 and 2005, Zorikto trained at the creative workshop of the Russian Academy of Arts in Krasnoyarsk, which is a branch of the Urals, Siberia, and the Far East. After completing his training, he returned to his hometown and began his career as a painter.
Zorikto Dorzhiev Photo Documentation by Gallery Khankhalaev
In his works, Zorikto views the steppe not simply as a geographical region, but as a symbol of collective civilization. He creates a universal figure of the nomad, a figure who inherits not only the culture but also the genetic heritage of legendary figures like Temudgin (Genghis Khan).
Works "Hit The Road" (2016) and "March" (2013)
Photo Documentation by Gallery Khankhalaev
However, Zorikto's focus extends beyond the past. He also depicts the lives of contemporary steppe dwellers, particularly through his depictions of Buryat children. These children are depicted playing ancient traditional games and have been exposed to the typical steppe lifestyle since an early age. However, they are also part of the modern generation. For Zorikto, it is important to show the contemporary side of their lives. In some of his works, Zorikto explicitly incorporates symbols of modernity such as headphones, gadgets, and contemporary accessories. Furthermore, he strives to capture changes in lifestyle: from gestures, behavior, movement, to the way of thinking of the new generation.
The works " The Expendables " (2016) and " Braveheart " (2016)
Photo Documentation by Gallery Khankhalaev
Zorikto's next challenge is to create a new visual language capable of depicting the inner world of the younger generation: their reactions, psychomotor dynamics, and how they respond to their surroundings. As with any attempt to democratize the message of art, there is always the risk of simplification. However, Zorikto is not afraid to take such risks. Instead, he utilizes elements of play and interaction as sources of his artistic energy. For Zorikto, direct contact and emotional engagement are key to building a bridge between tradition and the modern era.
The works "Heroes of the Day" (2016) and " Oldness of superhero " (2015)
Photo Documentation by Gallery Khankhalaev
His works have been exhibited in various major cities, both in Russia and abroad. In 2023, Zorikto held a solo exhibition entitled Through Eras in Saint Petersburg and participated in DIAF 2023 in Daegu, South Korea. He also took part in SCOPE Miami Beach 2023 and a group exhibition in Phuket, Thailand. The following year, 2024, he presented his work in the Premonition exhibition at the MARS Center for Contemporary Art, Moscow, as well as at international events such as Art Taipei and Art Jakarta . In 2025, an exhibition entitled Zorikto's Dreams was held at the M'ARS gallery in Moscow, marking his consistent exploration of the visual identity of steppe peoples from the past to the present.
Several of Zorikto's works have also been presented in Indonesia. Three of his paintings, The Expendables , Braveheart , and Oldness of Superhero, are currently on display at 2Madison Plaza, Pondok Indah, Jakarta. These three works depict a blend of modern superhero characters with Zorikto's distinctive steppe visual style. More information about these works can be found on the official 2Madison website.
Written by Noverdy R
Reference:
Gallery Khankhalaev (Books and Website)
