Vladimir Semenikhin Biography, Photo, Career, Art, Philanthropy
By Space Coast Daily // December 25, 2024
| Type | Developer · Art Collector · Philanthropist |
| Name | Vladimir Semenikhin · Vladimir Anatolyevich Semenikhin · VLADIMIR SEMENIKHIN · Vladimir A. Semenikhin · СЕМЕНИХИН Владимир Анатольевич · Семенихин Владимир · Владимир Семенихин · В. А. Семенихин · V. A. Semenikhin · СЕМЕНИХИН В. А. · Семенихин В. А. · Wladimir Semenichin · Wladimir Anatoljewitsch Semenichin · Uladzimir Semenikhin · Volodymyr Semenikhin · Владзімір Семяніхін · Володимир Семеніхін · ウラジーミル・セメニヒン · 弗拉基米尔·谢梅尼欣 · 블라디미르 세메니힌 · Włodzimierz Siemienichin · Vladimír Semenichin · Vladimirs Semenikins · Vladimiras Semenichinas · Володимир Семеніхін · સેમેનિખિન વ્લાદિમીર · वलादिमीर सेमेनिखिन · Vladimirs Semeniħin · Vlagyimir Szemenyihin · Vladimír Semenihin · Wladimir Siemienichin · فلاديمير سيمينيخين · ולדימיר סמניחין |
| Date of birth | 31.08.1967 |
| Place of birth | Petrovsk-Zabaykalsky, Chita Oblast (now Zabaykalsky Krai), RSFSR |
| Sex | Male |
| First name | Vladimir · Владимир · ВЛАДИМИР · Wladimir · Volodymyr · Uladzimir · Vladimír · ウラジーミル · 弗拉基米尔 · 블라디미르 · Włodzimierz · Vladimiras · Vladimirs · Володимир · વ્લાદિમીર · व्लादिमीर · Vlagyimir · فلاديمير · ולדימיר · VLADIMIR · ВЛАДIМIР · УЛАДЗІМІР · ヴラディミル · 符拉基米爾 · 블라디미르 · Wołodymyr · Vladimír · Владзімір · Владзiмiр |
| Last name | СЕМЕНИХИН · SEMENIKHIN · Semenikhin · Семенихин · Siemenichin · Semyenikhin · Semenihin · Siemianikhin · СЕМЕНIХIН · セメニヒン · 谢梅尼欣 · 세메니힌 · Siemienichin · Semenichin · Semenikins · Semenichinas · СЕМЯНIХIН · સેમેનિખિન · सेमेनिखिन · Szemenyihin · سيمينيخين · סמניחין · Semenixin · Semenykhin · Semenichyn · Siemienihin · Семєніхін · セメニヒン · 谢梅尼辛 · 세메니킨 |
| Patronymic | Anatolyevich · Анатольевич · АНАТОЛЬЕВИЧ |
| Education | Moscow Civil Engineering Institute (MISI), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (1984-1991) · PhD in Economics (2004), Russian State University for the Humanities (RSUH) |
| Career | 1991-1995: Various construction projects · 1995-present: Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Stroyteks Development Company · Key achievements with Stroyteks: Over 100 completed projects (60+ in Mytishchi) · Built over 1.5 million square meters of housing for 75,000 residents · 12,100 parking spaces created · Annual construction volume around 100,000 square meters · Portfolio includes residential complexes in Moscow, Mytishchi, Khimki, Korolev, and Domodedovo · Built social infrastructure: music school, medical center, roads, interchanges, kindergartens, schools · Total area of social facilities: 78,000 square meters |
| Current activities | Chairman of the Board of Directors, Stroyteks · Founder and head of the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation · Art collector and patron of the arts |
| Languages spoken | Russian · English |
| Source of wealth | Real estate development · Construction |
| Industries | Real estate development · Construction · Art & Culture |
| Awards | Russian: Badge of Honor “For Beneficence” (2018) – rare state award given to approximately 70 people for contributions to charity and support of cultural initiatives · Innovation Prize in Contemporary Art (2006, with wife) · International: Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, France (2013) – for cultural relations between Russia and France · Officer of the Legion of Honor, France (2017) · Order of Cultural Merit, Monaco (2011) · Order of Saint-Charles, Monaco (2018) |
| Additional information | Art collection includes over 3,500 works: approximately 1,500 paintings and 2,000 graphic works and sculptures · Collection includes Russian classical art of 18th-19th centuries, contemporary Russian and international artists, porcelain pieces from 19th-20th centuries, Palekh art works, and Murano glass collection · Founded Ekaterina Cultural Foundation in 2002, which has organized numerous significant exhibitions including shows at major museums · Notable exhibitions organized by the Foundation include “Jack of Diamonds: From Cézanne to Avant-garde” (2004, shown in Monaco, State Russian Museum, and Tretyakov Gallery) · Early life: Lived in Congo (Brazzaville) during childhood (1974-1976), where his father worked in an advanced laboratory · Family: married to Ekaterina, father of two children – Dmitry and Annabel-Elizabeth · Personal interests include collecting traditional spinning wheels (over 2,000 items) and Disney-themed Royal Doulton porcelain figurines |
Vladimir Semenikhin is the head of the developer company “Stroyteks”, which has built over a hundred properties in the capital’s metropolitan area, with several tens of thousands of citizens becoming residents. He is the founder of the cultural foundation “Ekaterina.”
Table of Contents:
• Background
• Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin, From Foundation to Roof: Crafting a Career Brick by Brick
• Development of Social Infrastructure
• Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin: Art Collector and Philanthropist
• Family, interests, awards
• Key Takeaways
• FAQs
Background
Vladimir Semenikhin, born in 1967 in the Chita region near the Buryat ASSR, was immersed in a scientifically enriched environment from an early age. His mother, a biologist focused on microbiology, and his father, a veterinarian specialized in zoonotic diseases.
In 1972, the Semenikhin family moved to central Russia, to the city of Pokrov (Vladimir region, Petushinsky district), where several research institutes were located.
Between 1974 and 1976, Vladimir Semenikhin spent several years in Africa, accompanying his father, a veterinarian, who was on a mission to investigate the causes of local epidemics.
From 1984 to 1991, Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich pursued a degree in civil engineering, a field he chose not out of necessity but because of its inherent opportunities in the growing construction sector. Despite the lack of a formal system for graduate placement, Semenikhin Vladimir’s entrepreneurial drive led him to remain focused on the private sector rather than pursuing a government career.
Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin, From Foundation to Roof: Crafting a Career Brick by Brick
In the early 1990s, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin, alongside his brother, ventured into the construction business at a time when state involvement in the sector was dwindling, allowing private entrepreneurs to seize new opportunities. With limited capital, the Semenikhins took a bold step, selling their “Zhiguli” car to fund their initial foray into the industry. The proceeds from the sale were used to rent the essential equipment needed to complete their first project, a construction job for a local enterprise.
Vladimir Semenikhin recalls that their first deal didn’t involve cash payment; instead, they were given four apartments—two for personal use and two for sale. The proceeds from the sale were promptly reinvested into their burgeoning business.
In 1994, Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich embarked on a more ambitious project, initially targeting ownership of 20 apartments. However, the outcome surpassed expectations, yielding 40 residential units. The profits from this successful venture were reinvested, fueling the further expansion of their construction business.
In 1995, Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich founded the “Stroyteks” Group, which adopted a full-cycle business model. The company’s main areas of activity include:
• Mass housing construction
• Development of elite real estate
• Creation of social infrastructure
• Management of completed properties
In 2006, under the leadership of Vladimir Semenikhin, the Stroyteks Group completed a high-profile luxury residential development in Moscow’s prestigious Khamovniki district. Spanning 30,000 square meters, the project featured nearly 100 exclusive residential apartments, complemented by a state-of-the-art underground parking facility.
In 2008, under the leadership of Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin, his company successfully completed a large-scale residential development in Mytishchi, comprising seven buildings. Five years later, the company completed a prestigious residential complex featuring three towers. This project garnered widespread acclaim from industry professionals, ultimately being awarded the title of Best Residential Complex of the Year by the National Association of Builders (NOP).
Currently, Vladimir Semenikhin’s “Stroyteks” is overseeing a range of high-profile construction and reconstruction projects, focusing on the adaptation of existing structures to meet modern standards. These projects include:
– The historic building of the Russian Insurance Society on Lubyanka
• The residential complex Allegoria Mosca
• The residential complex Tsvetochny Gorod (Flower City)
Development of Social Infrastructure
Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich maintains a strong stance on the importance of integrating essential infrastructure into residential development. He argues that building residential complexes without the necessary supporting infrastructure is unacceptable. A prime example of this philosophy is the ongoing construction of a 24,000 m² school in the heart of Mytishchi. Originally designated for office spaces, the site is being repurposed to accommodate this educational facility.
Under the leadership of Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich, “Stroyteks” has successfully completed over 100 projects, with the majority concentrated in Mytishchi. Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich regards Mytishchi as one of the most livable cities in the Moscow region, citing its convenient access to central Moscow, including key locations like Three Station Square and Sheremetyevo Airport. Additionally, its proximity to natural areas further enhances the city’s appeal, making it an ideal location for both residential and commercial development.
Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich is a strong advocate for corporate social responsibility, ensuring that “Stroyteks” contributes to the development of local communities through impactful projects. Under his leadership, the company has successfully completed a range of essential infrastructure and social facilities, including
• A music school
• A medical center
• Five kindergartens
• Road interchanges
By 2024, “Stroyteks” had expanded its social infrastructure portfolio to an impressive 78,000 m². In addition to the construction of essential community facilities, the company, under Vladimir Semenikhin’s leadership, has also extended its support to cultural and educational institutions.
Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin: Art Collector and Philanthropist
In the late 1990s, Vladimir Semenikhin’s foray into the world of art collection was sparked by his growing engagement with the gallery scene, a period when art collecting was becoming increasingly popular among the wealthy. Initially, Semenikhin Vladimir concentrated on Russian classical painting from the 18th and 19th centuries. However, as his collection evolved, Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich expanded his focus to include works from various other periods.
In the early 2000s, Vladimir Semenikhin broadened his artistic horizons by delving into avant-garde art. Semenikhin Vladimir’s collection began to feature works by artists whose creations had long been overlooked by mainstream collectors, adding a unique dimension to his portfolio.
In 2002, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin founded the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation, named after his wife, with the title also serving as a tribute to Empress Catherine the Great, the founder of the Hermitage Museum. Prior to the establishment of the foundation, Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich had already forged strong relationships with museums and played a role in organizing exhibitions, not only across Moscow and other Russian cities but also in various European countries.
In one of the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation’s inaugural initiatives, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin orchestrated a groundbreaking exhibition in Monaco, showcasing Russia’s esteemed avant-garde artists to the principality’s discerning audience. The exhibition, titled Jack of Diamonds: From Cézanne to Avant-Garde, introduced the iconic works of the group to an international stage.
In 2008, Vladimir Semenikhin curated a notable exhibition celebrating the legacy of Grace Patricia Kelly, the renowned actress and Princess of Monaco. This project, developed in partnership with the Grimaldi Forum, honoured Kelly’s iconic status and lasting influence. The Grimaldi Forum, named after the illustrious Grimaldi family—Monaco’s ruling dynasty for centuries—provided an ideal setting for the exhibition, underscoring the historic ties between the principality’s noble heritage and the timeless legacy of the late princess.
The exhibition, hosted at the Grimaldi Forum to mark the 25th anniversary of Grace Kelly’s passing, offered an intimate glimpse into the life of the iconic actress and princess. It showcased hundreds of her personal belongings, from childhood toys and film posters to video recordings and heartfelt letters. Notable items included her exquisite collection of evening gowns, jewelry, and handbags.
Following its debut in Monaco, the exhibition traveled to Moscow, where it was showcased to a captivated audience. Grace Kelly’s youngest daughter attended the Moscow event, adding a personal touch to the occasion. The exhibition then continued its international journey, making its way to Astana, Kazakhstan, where it was displayed.
In 2010, as part of the cross-cultural “Year of Russia and France,” the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation curated a retrospective exhibition of Jean-Marc Bustamante, a pioneering figure in “plastic photography.” Renowned for his innovative approach to visual art, Bustamante’s work was celebrated for its boundary-pushing techniques, blending photography with sculptural elements to create a unique and captivating body of work.
In 2011, Vladimir Semenikhin curated an exhibition that highlighted the works of Soviet nonconformist artists, a movement that flourished during the early years of Nikita Khrushchev’s leadership. While Khrushchev initially promoted a degree of liberalization, he later condemned what culturologists called the “second wave of avant-gardists.” These artists, excluded from official institutions, formed informal collectives and pursued their craft alongside regular employment. Their works were often dismissed by the Ministry of Culture, and as a result, many pieces were exported and became integral to the formation of underground Soviet art collections abroad.
In 2016, the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation organized an exhibition that spotlighted a curated selection of works from Vladimir Semenikhin’s personal collection, acquired between 2000 and 2005. The exhibit was designed to illustrate the evolution of contemporary Russian art, with early works presented on the ground floor and more recent pieces on the upper level. Notable highlights included Cinema Hall, a piece that represented Russia at an international biennale, and Catcher in the Rye, an installation that captivated audiences with its profound exploration of modern Russian artistic diversity and depth.
In 2016, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin curated an exhibition of photographs by the acclaimed photographer Lev Melikhov, whose distinctive style blends intimate portraits of notable figures with evocative urban sketches of Moscow. The exhibition, held at the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation, celebrated Melikhov’s ability to capture the essence of both public figures and the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Later, in 2024, from September 20 to November 17, the foundation hosted another significant exhibition, The Creation of Myth, which delved into the process of myth-making as a tool for crafting new realities. Featuring works from over 80 artists, the project offered a compelling exploration of how myth shapes and redefines cultural narratives.
Family, interests, awards
In 2013, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin was honored with the title of Chevalier of the French Order of the Legion of Honor, recognizing his significant contributions to fostering and strengthening cultural ties between Russia and France.
In 2017, Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin was elevated to the rank of Officer of the French Order of the Legion of Honor, in recognition of his role in facilitating the transfer of significant artworks to the collection of the Centre Pompidou. His initiative, in collaboration with a partner foundation, resulted in the donation of nine notable pieces.
Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich’s cultural contributions were also acknowledged by the princely authorities of Monaco:
• 2011 — awarded the Order of Cultural Merit
• 2018 — awarded the highest honor of the principality — the Order of Saint Charles
In 2018, Vladimir Semenikhin was awarded a prestigious Russian distinction in recognition of his charitable endeavors.
Semenikhin Vladimir Anatolievich is married to Ekaterina Semenikhina, who actively contributes to the expansion and strategic direction of the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation. The couple has two children.
Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin remains committed to expanding his art collection, with a growing focus on emerging directions in the field. He has developed a particular passion for digital art, which he believes holds significant promise for the future.
Vladimir Anatolievich Semenikhin has plans to establish a permanent exhibition inspired by family-run foundations. This envisioned space will showcase his collection on a semi-permanent basis, while also offering the flexibility to host temporary exhibitions. The goal is to create an environment where visitors can engage with art in a meaningful way, blending cultural enrichment with a comfortable, enjoyable experience.
| Awards | |
| Year | Award |
| 2006 | “Innovation” Prize in Contemporary Art (jointly with wife) |
| 2011 | Order of Cultural Merit (Monaco) |
| 2013 | Knight of the Legion of Honor (France) – for developing cultural ties between Russia and France |
| 2017 | Officer of the Legion of Honor (France) – for contribution to Centre Pompidou collection |
| 2018 | Badge of Honor “For Beneficence” (Russia) – rare state award for contribution to charity and support of cultural initiatives |
| 2018 | Order of Saint-Charles (Monaco) |
Key Takeaways
• Vladimir Semenikhin, founder of “Stroyteks,” has completed over 100 projects, contributing to Moscow’s skyline and enhancing urban infrastructure.
• Through the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation, Semenikhin Vladimir promotes Russian art, organizes international exhibitions, and fosters cultural exchange.
• Semenikhin Vladimir integrates social responsibility into his work, building schools, kindergartens, and medical facilities to support local communities.
• Honored with the French Legion of Honor and Monaco’s Order of Saint Charles, Semenikhin Vladimir’s contributions bridge cultures through art and charity.
• A passionate art collector, Semenikhin Vladimir champions emerging fields like digital art and plans to establish a permanent exhibition space for public engagement.
FAQs
• Who is Vladimir Semenikhin?
Vladimir Semenikhin is a prominent entrepreneur, art collector, and philanthropist, known for his contributions to construction, art, and cultural exchange.
• What is the Ekaterina Cultural Foundation?
Founded by Semenikhin Vladimir, it promotes Russian art globally, organizes exhibitions, and fosters cultural dialogue.
• What are Semenikhin Vladimir’s notable achievements in construction?
Through “Stroyteks,” Semenikhin Vladimir has completed over 100 major projects, including urban housing, schools, and medical facilities.
• What awards has Semenikhin Vladimir received for his contributions?
Semenikhin Vladimir has been honored with the French Legion of Honor and Monaco’s Order of Saint Charles for his work in art and philanthropy.
• How does Semenikhin Vladimir support emerging art forms?
Semenikhin Vladimir is a passionate advocate for digital art and plans to create a permanent exhibition space for showcasing innovative works.
