The routine of the future: vibrant satirical posters at the National Centre RUSSIA gallery

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The exposition "Legacy for the Future" offers a unique opportunity not only to appreciate art and explore the culture of other countries but also to peek 100–200, or perhaps even a thousand years ahead. A graduate of Kazan Federal University showcases her vision of the future through vibrant posters that blend original graphics with modern digital techniques.

The series of posters, titled "Routine," features three pieces depicting whimsical yet mundane scenes from the lives of people in the distant future. In an ironic manner, the artist Maria Shefer reflects on humanity’s place in the future, pondering what aspects of our existence will change irreversibly and what will remain constant.

Each of the three posters illustrates a specific slogan — a public directive to citizens — which connects this work to Soviet propaganda posters. Shefer’s vision of the future appears both advanced and archaic, modern and timeless. The choice of protagonists in the posters is also noteworthy. Although a human is invariably at the centre, the impression is that the future has not been kind to people. In every poster, the protagonist stands alone, surrounded only by cyborg animals, and their helmet and sealed suit make them resemble a robot more than a living being.

"These posters evoke conflicting emotions in me. On the one hand, they are vivid and resemble posters for sci-fi films, referencing science fiction and even comics — they’re inspiring. But at the same time, looking at them, you don’t get the sense that a bright future awaits us. It makes you reflect: to cherish the present and take care of our planet," shared Andrei Startsev, a guest of the exposition.

The National Centre RUSSIA gallery presents paintings, sculptures, engravings, photographs, videos, installations, and even architectural projects created by young artists over the past few years. Among the participants are creators from Russia, China, India, Iran, Brazil, and Ethiopia. Visitors can enjoy the exposition independently or take advantage of a free guided tour, available in 30-minute or one-hour formats. Registration is available on the website in 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.