The serenity of Medvedev's works contrasts sharply with the tumultuous early years of his life. Born in Kharkov, Ukraine of the former Soviet Union in 1931, the young artist's life was marked by the events of World War II. He learned the artistic forms of casting and bronze sculpture. Igor's artistic talent helped the family move to the United States. During these difficult times, Medvedev found solace in his art.

Medvedev's art was immediately well received. Between 1954 and 1963 he held fifteen solo exhibitions of his work in Germany and numerous exhibitions in the United States. Although his art was affected by the popular movements of abstract expressionism, pop art, and optical art, Medvedev felt more inclined toward work and figurative structure, particularly in the roundness of these shapes.