The paintings "In the Stairwell" and "The Stop": two perspectives on loneliness at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition
The unique
exposition of young artists from various countries continues at the National
Centre RUSSIA. Loneliness has become one of the most relevant themes reflected
in the artists' work. Here’s how authors from Russia and China depict
loneliness in their creations.
"In
the Stairwell" is a painting by Kim Khabibullin. A student of the Zagir
Ismagilov Ufa State Institute of Arts, he portrays a familiar everyday scene. A
man is climbing the stairs in a stairwell with a bag in his hand, apparently
heading to his apartment. At first glance, there seems to be nothing remarkable
about this plot, but upon closer inspection, the painting masterfully conveys the
condition of a lonely elderly man who must face life's burdens alone. These
burdens are symbolized by the evidently heavy bag and the steep staircase in
the foreground.
However,
this painting holds a secret. The guide of the National Centre RUSSIA, Yuri
Bolotov, explained that some visitors of the exposition see a completely
opposite meaning here. Children perceive it more positively, and young art
enthusiasts offer their interpretation: the man is not lonely at all; he is
hurrying to his large family. That is why he has such a heavy bag full of
groceries — a lonely person would not buy so much just for himself.
Thoughts of
loneliness also arise when looking at a completely different work — "The
Stop" by Shen Jingyi. According to Yuri Bolotov, this painting is one of
the most frightening. It depicts an urban landscape, with a little girl
standing at the centre, peeking out from behind a tree. The painting's
peculiarity lies in its deliberate incompleteness. Many elements remain
uncolored, as if they are about to disappear. This makes the child's tragedy
feel more acute. While loneliness burdens an adult, for a child, loneliness is
truly dangerous.
In the
gallery of the National Centre RUSSIA, visitors can see paintings, sculptures,
engravings, photographs, videos, installations, and even architectural projects
created by young artists over the past few years. Guests can enjoy either a
self-guided tour of the exposition or a free guided tour lasting 30 or 60
minutes. Registration is available on the website in the "Events"
section.
