"Crossing Boundaries": a striking installation about growing up at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition

The exposition, hosted at the National Centre RUSSIA, showcases works by young artists from various countries. Thanks to the diversity of styles, genres, and artistic approaches, every visitor can find something personally relatable. For instance, the vibrant installation "Crossing Boundaries" by Li Runzhi. Tour guide Olga Dodonova explained how red desks and chairs symbolize growing up and searching for one’s place in society.

Li Runzhi's work "Crossing Boundaries" is a complex structure of desks and chairs painted red. The installation is dedicated to school — our second home. It reflects on that challenging yet significant period in life when we first leave our family to become part of another group. We begin interacting with new people and must adapt to rules that differ greatly from our familiar home routines.

"We are talking about socialization here. When we are born, we feel warm, safe, and comfortable under the wings of our parents. However, as social beings, we move on to kindergarten and later to school. There, we are placed within certain frameworks and boundaries, with discipline being required of us. The composition of this piece reflects this very moment, as the arrangement of chairs and desks creates numerous facets. It represents social transformation. This work invites us to reflect on the time of our own growing up and to consider our place in life," explained Olga Dodonova, a tour guide at the National Centre RUSSIA.

"Legacy for the Future" is a large-scale project by the National Centre RUSSIA, promoting the idea of multinational dialogue about the future of the world, with humanity at its core.

The exposition features works by young artists from six countries: Russia, China, India, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Iran. In their creations, the young authors present a personal response to contemporary challenges. They reflect on the present, express their attitude towards past events, 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.