van's art is at times quite dark, both in its form and its subject matter. His work never fails to bring forth a response from the viewer which is many times a negative one thus validating the fact that life is not all roses and chocolate.

Ivan challenges us to think about our own life not only as individuals but also as members of society. His paintings act like a mirror that show us both our strengths and our weaknesses. These images of one's life experiences are as universally valid today as they were both before and after Ivan's lifetime; yet another sign of a great artist's contribution to mankind.

His use of color and art forms to represent and accentuate emotions is intriguing. Garikow's Beauty Mark displays the childlike art work of neo-primitivism whereby representing the starkness of a situation, or perhaps, the hope a child may hold for a better future.

Facial expressions are another tool that Ivan uses to create specific and significant appearances. Subtle characteristics so meaningful and revealing they awaken the soul. In Mephisto's Leer and Marley's Friend, the sinister glance creates a stirring countenance, and in a contrasting style, the cartoon-like features seen in The Gladiator capture the intense will to live at the horror of living one's last moment.