Preserving the legacy: what the paintings "The Feat of the Hermitage" and "Eeja" tell us at the National Centre RUSSIA
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.
The National Centre RUSSIA will host a series of presentations titled "Journey Across Russia's Gastronomic Festivals."
The National Centre RUSSIA today meets the needs of various professional communities for communication and exchange of experience.
During the tour of the expansive exposition, the Chairman of the Government highlighted the significance of the display.