The workshop-museum of realistic painting by Alexander Varentsov is a unique space that opened to visitors in 2014. It was founded by artists Alexander Varentsov and Svetlana Akifyeva, who are spouses and colleagues: Alexander, a teacher, and Svetlana, his student.

Alexander Varentsov, Honored Artist of Russia, corresponding member of the Petersburg Academy of Sciences and Arts, is actively engaged in public activities and pedagogy. He organized the first Children's Art School in Novgorod and the region and initiated the creation of a network of art education in Novgorod Oblast and creative faculties at NovSU.

Svetlana Akifyeva, an artist, art historian, and educator, is a member of the Union of Artists of Russia and the Petersburg Academy of Sciences and Arts.

The workshop-museum combines two studios where contemporary artists engage in creativity. A special place here is occupied by the gallery, which currently exhibits works by Alexander Varentsov. The retrospective exhibition dedicated to his 65th anniversary features works that reflect the master's development: from analytical portraits and still lifes of the 1970s to impressionistic landscapes and decorative-synthetic paintings of the early 21st century.

In the small hall, there is an exhibition of prints based on the works of Alexander Varentsov, as well as book illustrations and watercolors by Svetlana Akifyeva. Here, you can choose and purchase a poster, a painting, or a watercolor study.

In the graphic class, artists share their experiences and conduct master classes where everyone can try their hand at drawing.