In the world of periodicals, Time magazine is considered one of the most influential and well-known. Its covers, often bright and satirical, attract attention. For nearly 20 years, they were created by the Russian artist Boris Mikhailovich Artsybashov. Born in Kharkiv in 1899, he graduated from art courses at the studio of Princess Tenisheva, where Bilibin and Serebryakova also studied. In the midst of the Civil War, Artsybashov emigrated to the USA, starting from scratch and making a living designing labels for beer bottles. A turning point in his career was the mural painting at the émigré restaurant The Russian Inn, which opened the door to the wider world.

Over time, various companies began inviting Boris Mikhailovich to work as a designer. He created advertising posters for major companies such as Xerox, Shell Oil, World Airways, and Parker Pens. His works often contained surrealistic elements, bringing machines and mechanisms to life, earning him a reputation as a master of anthropomorphism. In 1941, Artsybashov began collaborating with Time magazine, creating covers during World War II and the subsequent Cold War, when scientific and technological progress was rapidly advancing. Among his subjects were well-known figures such as Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Marshal Zhukov, Carl Jung, British commander Montgomery, Ho Chi Minh, Stalin, Khrushchev, Louis Armstrong, and others.

Artsybashov always sought to reflect the spirit of the times, showing interest in psychology and conveying emotions and character traits in his portraits. Over 25 years of working with Time, he created nearly 200 covers, many of which became true works of art. The artist continued to work with pleasure until the end of his life. He passed away in 1965, having already become one of the best American illustrators during his lifetime.