Gallery

De Chino was born in 1955 in Tbilisi, in the Republic of Georgia (in the former USSR).  Since the age of three, Elio has had a passion for the fine arts and has participated quite frequently in TV Art programs as well as having had his works published in children's magazines.

Elio entered the Tbilisi Academy of Art in 1972 and graduated in 1979.  Having been unable to create independently while studying in the Academy, he began to work very actively after graduation.  Profoundly inspired by different styles and schools, he presented his works regularly in the All-Union exhibitions.

This talented artist, who had always been opposed to the Communist ideology and oppression of art, even became recognized by the USSR Union of Artists which was at the time under the strict control of the communist regime.  With the advent of Gorbachev's "Perestroika" many artist look the opportunity to exhibit their works abroad (primarily in Europe) and Elio was among them.

Following the civil wars in the former USSR, Elio immigrated to the USA, first to New York and then on to Atlanta for permanent residence. Elio feels that he has traveled more than enough and is happy to be putting down roots-literally; he loves to garden and finds inspiration for his landscapes in flora.