A family workshop "Paint Like Vasnetsov" was held at the National Centre RUSSIA

On November 24, the National Centre RUSSIA launched a new project aimed at popularizing Russian art and strengthening family values. The series of events, titled "Masterpieces. The Best of Russia," opened with an educational family workshop called "Paint Like Vasnetsov."

"With this new project of the National Centre, we aim to create a cozy environment where families can gather, learn something new and exciting about our country and its achievements — including its greatest artistic heritage. Perhaps today, your vibrant collaborative artworks will become just as significant and cherished for your families as the creations of great Russian artists are for our entire nation," said Anastasia Zvyagina, Deputy Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA, addressing the workshop participants.

Before picking up their pencils, guests attended an engaging lecture about Viktor Vasnetsov, whose 176th birthday is celebrated this year. In an interesting and accessible manner, Natalia Anyk, a methodologist from the State Tretyakov Gallery, spoke about the life and works of the great master of historical and folklore painting.

Participants of the master class began creating their own interpretations of Vasnetsov's painting "Ivan Tsarevich Riding the Grey Wolf" under the guidance of Sergei Andriyaka, Acting Rector of the Academy of Watercolor and Fine Arts, and Vyacheslav Zhelvakov, People's Artist of the Russian Federation. Guests learned about the composition of the artwork, overcame the fear of a "blank canvas," and, through an enjoyable creative process, produced their own "masterpieces."

"The art of drawing is something that truly captivates you. It’s like sitting at a table with good company: you can do it for quite a long time. I hope that those of you who experienced drawing for the first time today enjoyed the process. And, of course, I am pleased that through our artwork today, we honored the memory of the great Russian artist Viktor Vasnetsov," Vyacheslav Zhelvakov concluded the workshop.