Honored Artist of the RSFSR (visual arts)

The title "Honored Artist of the RSFSR" (Russian: Заслуженный художник РСФСР, Zasluzhennyy khudozhnik RSFSR) was an honorary title awarded to visual artists by the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (RSFSR), one of the republics of the Soviet Union. The title was conferred upon artists who had made significant contributions to the development of visual arts within the RSFSR.

Specifically, it recognized artists who had created works of art that were highly acclaimed and widely recognized for their artistic merit. This could encompass a wide range of visual art forms, including painting, sculpture, graphic arts, decorative arts, and stage design.

The awarding of the title was intended to acknowledge the artist's skill, dedication, and the impact their work had on the cultural landscape of the RSFSR. Recipients generally possessed a considerable body of work and had achieved recognition both within the professional art community and among the public.

The title carried a certain level of prestige and social recognition. Recipients often enjoyed certain privileges, although these varied over time and could include preferential treatment in acquiring materials, access to studios, and increased opportunities for exhibition.

The "Honored Artist of the RSFSR" title was a precursor to the higher title of "People's Artist of the RSFSR," and both were part of a system of state honors designed to promote and reward artistic achievement that aligned with the ideals and goals of the Soviet state. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the RSFSR becoming the Russian Federation, the system of titles was modified, and new titles were established. The "Honored Artist of Russia" is now awarded in the Russian Federation.