Portriat of Yelena BonnerSoviet UnionLeaders of Soviet Dissident CommunityAndrei Sakharov and Yelena Bonner were the “first couple” of the Soviet Union’s dissident movement – and their Moscow apartment served as the unofficial headquarters of many who disagreed with the government’s repressive policies. Sakharov, a theoretical physicist who designed the Soviet Union’s hydrogen bomb, used his prestige as a scientist to become a forceful champion for rights and greater freedom in his country. Both Sakharov and his wife Yelena Bonner, a dedicated human rights advocate, were routinely harassed and defamed by the Soviet government, but they were considered by ordinary people in the Soviet Union – and supporters around the world – to be the conscience of their nation. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975, Sakharov was not permitted to attend the award ceremony. Both Sakharov and Bonner spent much of the 1980s in internal exile in the Soviet city of Gorky.The Artist’s thoughts on painting this series- “The seven amazing individuals I will be “working with” have opened my eyes to so much and made me appreciate their courage. Because I have read many of their speeches, seen countless photographs, and watched significant video coverage of their work, I feel as though they are still alive. As I roll steadfastly into 2014 charged with the task of bringing these heroes to life with paint on canvas, it is my sincere hope that I will fully and beautifully capture their light and their spirit. My hopes and wishes for everyone else in my world and beyond, as they march into 2014, is that they can all find the spark and the courage to embark on their own missions − to accomplish, to achieve, to overcome, to effect change. Even if it is small and personal – such as “giving back” to those in need, or finding peace within, or being a better friend, neighbor or co-worker – as Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” About the Artist - RossinPainting since age six, Rossin’s has established an astonishing production capacity that enables him to keep his prices fair and reasonable. In addition to family portraiture, his clientele includes a wide range of world leaders in politics, business, science, history and the arts. His work can be found in various government institutions, museums and private collections around the world. His four paintings in The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery’s Permanent Collection in Washington DC are a testament to his extraordinary talent.