Shared traditions of culinary art and folk craft celebrated at the "Great Lent Meetings"
The close connection between the culinary traditions of Russia’s regions and folk arts and crafts was highlighted at the Gastronomic Rows of the National Centre RUSSIA.
On April 13, ahead of Easter, the venue hosted the "Great Lent Meetings" — an extensive programme of educational lectures and workshops aimed at reviving ancient traditions and fostering spiritual enrichment through creativity and art.
"Last year, the tradition of our 'Great Lent Meetings' began at the International RUSSIA EXPO. So where else but the National Centre RUSSIA should this tradition continue? The choice of the Gastronomic Rows was also no coincidence, as the items painted during the workshops are used in the kitchen and gastronomy. First, guests painted an egg and a spoon in the Khokhloma style, then a tray using the Zhostovo technique — perfect, for example, for Easter cakes. The programme concluded with a Gzhel workshop, where guests decorated a saucer and a glass, both of which are directly related to culinary use. So, the venue was chosen with absolute precision," noted Bela Smetanina, co-author and curator of the "New Year Trees of Russia" project, Head of Special Projects at the International Buyers Hub and the Resource Centre Fashion Hub Russia, PhD in Art History.
The series of pre-Easter events for guests of all ages at the National Centre RUSSIA was organised by FHUB RUSSIA as part of the "New Year Trees of Russia" project with the support of the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives. Participants enjoyed engaging lectures on the history of Russian folk crafts and were able to take home souvenirs they personally painted in Khokhloma, Gzhel, and Zhostovo styles after each workshop.
The Gastronomic Rows of the National Centre RUSSIA feature themed zones — South, North, West, and East — showcasing traditional dishes from various corners of the country, along with workshops and other educational activities. Admission is free upon prior registration at russia.ru. Current information about the educational programme is available in the "Events" section.
Host Alexei Slushchev and philosopher Konstantin Matsan discuss how ideas about human values have developed and whether they can influence our lives today.
In addition to souvenirs, a tea collection and healthy sweets, visitors to the Department Store showed particular interest in books.
