Embracing change: the message of the sculpture "Contemplating Oneself Before Awakening" at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition
For nearly a month now, the National Centre RUSSIA has been
hosting a unique exposition of young artists from various countries. The
collection includes paintings, photographs, video installations, art objects,
and sculptures. Tour guide Yuri Bolotov shared insights into one of the most
intriguing pieces.
The
sculpture by Xu Ning invites viewers to see themselves from an external
perspective and accept the changes that come with time. This applies to
both internal and external transformations. The artist reminds us that running
away from oneself is not a solution: only self-analysis and acceptance lead to
"awakening."
"Here,
a child is looking at themselves through a mirror, but the mirror is designed
in such a way that they simultaneously see their reflection and their older,
more mature self. As the 14th Dalai Lama once said, each day we wake up
is like being born anew, and each day is the most important day of your life.
You shouldn’t fear the mirror; you should rejoice in every new day,"
emphasizes the guide.
Of course,
every visitor can discover new and additional meanings. Many works
featured in the exposition encourage diverse interpretations and inspire
exploration and reflection. Xu Ning’s sculpture is no exception.
"I
think this piece reminds us of the importance of preserving the child within
us, even as we grow older. If you view it from a certain angle, you can
see that the child seems to be looking out from inside their adult version.
It’s a very profound and extraordinary work," notes exposition visitor
Natalia Kolesnik.
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
National Centre RUSSIA was established by order of the President of the Russian
Federation, Vladimir Putin, to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA
EXPO and to showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens on a
permanent basis. Federal government agencies, state companies, corporations,
and regions take part in the Centre’s work.
The
National Centre RUSSIA is located at 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow. The
Centre is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day except Monday.
