New Year tree of the Tomsk region: openwork carving and unique scraping
Birch bark and openwork wood have long been a trademark of the craftsmen of the Tomsk region.
In the New Year decoration of the fir tree both traditional birch-bark boxes and decorative panels made of carved birch bark are used.
One of the recognizable features of Tomsk birch bark is "scraping" — an ancient, very labor-intensive technique, which previously could be seen only in museum collections. The ornament is scraped with a knife on the inner birch bark, which quickly darkens in the air. Only the so-called "red" birch bark is suitable for scraping — it can be harvested in early spring.
The openwork carving presented in the New Year decor originates from the carved platbands, which were the trademark and brand of the region. Therefore, the New Year tree decor is supported by stylized decorative windows with platbands.
On the Main Alley of VDNH visitors are greeted by New Year fir trees, each of them representing a region of the country. The RUSSIA EXPO is open from Tuesday through Sunday, Monday is a technical day. The most convenient time to visit is in the mornings and weekdays, but the exposition is open to everyone on weekends as well. All expositions and events are free of charge.
Dear visitors, from 1 to 5 December the National Centre RUSSIA will be closed to the public.
A solemn award ceremony for the 2025 International Prize #WEARETOGETHER was held at the National Centre RUSSIA on 3 December.
