Preserving the legacy: what the paintings "The Feat of the Hermitage" and "Eeja" tell us at the National Centre RUSSIA

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The exposition "Legacy for the Future" features more than 200 works by artists, sculptors, and photographers from around the world. Two standout pieces — distinct yet embodying the theme of legacy — are "The Feat of the Hermitage" and "Eeja (Grandmother)." One greets visitors at the entrance, while the other concludes the gallery tour.

"The Feat of the Hermitage" is a painting visitors notice almost immediately. This large canvas, crafted in the classical style, tells the story of how the Hermitage Museum’s treasures were saved during the Great Patriotic War. It is the diploma work of Olga Volkova, a graduate of the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts named after Ilya Repin.

In 1941, museum staff — from scientists to ordinary workers — and volunteers from among the residents tirelessly prepared great paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts for evacuation, preserving their country's immense cultural legacy. According to eyewitness accounts, those involved slept less than an hour a day during this period. Everyone was so dedicated to helping that they had to be urged to rest or eat.

Interestingly, the painting not only highlights the importance of preserving the legacy but also serves as a vivid example of maintaining classical traditions in art. The artist paints as though following the teachings of old masters, carefully crafting the composition, playing with light and shadow, and imbuing each detail with profound meaning. Behind the everyday depiction lies the history of a vast country and events of global significance, while one of the central characters — a young museum employee — offers hope for a brighter future.

The second piece does not reference grand historical events; instead, it has a simple story involving just two characters. The painting "Eeja (Grandmother)" is no less touching and deep. It portrays two women: a grandmother in traditional Kalmyk attire and her granddaughter in a simple modern dress. 

"This remarkable piece often goes unnoticed, yet it’s one of my favorites. Before discussing it, let us recall the title of this exposition — 'Legacy for the Future' — and here, we find both legacy and the future. Artist Sharda Haktaeva from Kalmykia depicted her grandmother in national clothing. Since Kalmykia is a Buddhist region, the painting also features a statue of Buddha, an image of a bodhisattva, and prayer beads with 108 beads," shared Yuri Bolotov, a guide at the National Centre RUSSIA.

In the painting you can also notice several family photographs, symbolizing the importance of family values and the significance of every family and its stories, intricately intertwined with the history of the nation.

"This painting serves as a poignant reminder that we must cherish and respect the legacy of our ancestors, treating it with reverence," concluded the expert.

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.