Aleksandr Gerasimov was a Soviet painter and teacher known for his realistic and monumental portraits of Soviet leaders and heroes. He studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture and went on to become a professor at the Surikov Moscow Art Institute, where he taught for over 50 years. His portraits were highly revered by Soviet authorities and his works were commissioned for public spaces, including the Moscow Metro stations and the Palace of Soviets. Gerasimov was also the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the title of People's Artist of the USSR.