Five meanings reflected in the works of the "Legacy for the Future" exposition
Young artists, the creators of the items at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition in the National Centre RUSSIA, express their personal response to contemporary challenges through their works. Over 250 pieces from six countries — Russia, China, India, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Iran — convey significant meanings about the past, present, and future of humanity. Below are some of the key themes addressed by the artists.
Children are our future, and they can teach us how to dream. In the painting "Pre-Sunset Light" by Gao Mingyang, a student from China, people are shown hiding under umbrellas from the rain, except for one little girl who does not seek shelter. She gazes at the sky, admiring the sunset, while adults hurry about in their daily routine. The artist encourages everyone to find the child within themselves who notices beauty amidst the "blindness" of everyday life.
Respect for history, traditions, and ancestors. At times, despite a lack of formal education or even basic literacy, older friends and relatives teach us wisdom, pass down traditions, and instill moral values. The painting "Eezha (Grandmother)" by Sharda Haktaeva, an artist from Kalmykia, portrays her grandmother in traditional attire, accompanied by symbolic details such as a statue of Buddha, prayer beads with 108 beads, and family photographs, highlighting a deep emotional connection with older generations.
Preserving individuality is the path to a happy future. In his painting "The Name I Refused to Earn (26922)," Ethiopian artist Yared Tadesse depicts himself allegorically, refusing to accept a number in place of his name while seeking employment at a large corporation. The artwork invites viewers to reflect on how to maintain individuality and avoid living someone else's life.
If you relentlessly pursue your goal, help will always come. Afghan youth Alizada Anayatullah dreamed of studying at the Ilya Repin St. Petersburg Academy of Arts. On his path to this goal, he first moved to Iran, then to Doha, and finally to Moscow. There, a kind-hearted individual named Igor bought him a ticket to St. Petersburg, and another compassionate person, who "happened" to speak Farsi, fed him at a café and guided him to the Academy. In his painting "Self-Portrait," the artist depicts himself in the future—as a recognized master who overcame a series of challenging trials with the help of kind-hearted individuals.
The future is built by enthusiasts and professionals in their fields. Ksenia Vlasova conceived her painting "Carrying the Cross" even before the pandemic, after which the work of this young artist gained special relevance. "I dedicated my canvas to doctors because I consider their work invaluable, akin to divine abilities to resurrect and heal, helping others throughout life. I believe such a profession carries immense responsibility, which doctors take upon their shoulders like a cross and bear throughout their lives," says Ksenia Vlasova.
Visitors can immerse themselves in these and other ideas essential for shaping the future, either independently or as part of a free guided tour at the National Centre RUSSIA, available in 30-minute or one-hour formats. Registration is available on the russia.ru website in the "Events" section.
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