The world through a child’s eyes: touching paintings featuring children at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition
The central idea of the "Legacy for the Future"
exposition at the National Centre RUSSIA is the future of the world, with
humanity at its core. It is no coincidence that many of its pieces are in some
way dedicated to children, who truly are our future. The theme of childhood and
a child’s perception of reality is particularly vividly expressed by young
Chinese artists.
The tender painting "Light Before Sunset" carries
a profound meaning. Artist Gao Mingyang depicts people crossing a pedestrian
walkway. It is raining, and passersby shield themselves under black umbrellas.
Only a little girl does not try to hide from the rain. She stops and gazes at
the sky, admiring the sunset while the adults rush about in their daily
routines. The artist invites each of us to find the child within ourselves —
unafraid of getting wet, able to appreciate life’s small joys, and seeing
beauty all around, even when others are blind to it.
Chen Dunyue created the truly inspiring piece "Night
Canopy," transferring to the canvas a real scene he witnessed. One winter
evening, while strolling through his hometown, the artist saw a little girl
making a wish under a whimsically branched ginkgo tree during a fireworks
display. To him, it became a symbol of childlike hope and faith in the future.
The young girl has not yet forgotten how to dream and genuinely believes that
her plea to the higher powers will be fulfilled.
The painting’s special symbolism lies in the majestic ginkgo
tree, which appears gigantic compared to the small figure of the girl. The tree
not only creates the necessary contrast but also symbolizes the child’s growth.
One can be certain that the little dreamer will grow and become strong, just
like the tree, and that even the harshest winds will not break her.
In his vibrant and colorful work "The Ark Amid a Sea of
Flowers," Fu Hengyi reimagines the famous biblical story of Noah’s Ark.
Instead of a stormy ocean, the artist places the life-saving raft in a sea of
flowers. Through this, the artist conveys a belief in a bright future for our
world. Another striking difference from the legend is the children. According
to the tale, Noah, his wife, and three sons with their wives boarded the Ark.
However, in the artist’s interpretation, children become the primary symbol of
hope. This is unsurprising, as they are pure and innocent, while only righteous
adults could find a place on the Ark. The children on the painting peacefully
coexist with the animals, reminding us that the world is beautiful and
harmonious if viewed "through a child’s eyes."
The exposition "Legacy for the Future" presents
works by young artists from six countries: Russia, China, India, Brazil,
Ethiopia, and Iran. Through their art, these creators offer personal responses
to contemporary challenges. They reflect on the present, express their attitude
towards the past, and contemplate the future.
Visitors to the National Centre can explore the exposition
independently or join free guided tours, available in 30-minute or one-hour
formats. Registration is available on the website under the "Events"
section.
The All-Russian student holiday "Your Graduation" brought together 600 outstanding university graduates from more than 80 regions of the country.
