"The Birth of Scale" architectural exposition has opened at the National Centre RUSSIA
On March 1, the National Centre RUSSIA launched a new exposition, "The Birth of Scale," dedicated to Russian architecture and urban planning. The exposition showcases the grandeur of Russia through its architectural legacy, tracing the development of national architecture from unique historical structures to large-scale modern projects.
"As Gogol once said, architecture is the chronicle of the world. It restores our memory. And this exposition is about memory and the future. We have brought together the most fascinating ideas and the most powerful, conceptual, and innovative projects — whether it be the planned cities of Catherine the Great, the construction of the largest city in Europe on the Neva, the socialist city projects of the 1920s, or the immense urban planning movement in the Soviet Union of the 1960s, when the social urban planning school was considered the most advanced in the world. This is a comprehensive look at Russian architecture through the centuries. We are presenting a perspective from the future — on ourselves, our country, and our ideas, which remain incredibly relevant and inspiring even today," said the chief curator of the exposition, architect Andrei Chernikhov.
The displays of the exposition introduce visitors not only to real buildings and constructed landmarks but also to large-scale projects that remained unrealized. These include the unique wooden cathedral in Kizhi, the giant wooden ship Belyana, the "circle" of Stalinist skyscrapers around the Kremlin, the unbuilt Palace of the Soviets, the monumental "Tatlin’s Tower" project, and many other remarkable architectural concepts. The exhibits have been provided by museums and private collectors from across the country.
Visitors to the venue can explore how architects' workspaces were organized in different eras, learn about the functioning of modern studios, and participate in thematic lectures and workshops. A dedicated section of the exposition is focused on the future, showcasing children's creative studios, student workshops, works by young architects, as well as a mini-exposition of contemporary artists' pieces that highlight the connection between art and architecture.
"The Birth of Scale" exposition can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour led by the National Centre RUSSIA’s guides. Admission is free.
The children's workshop "Houses and Little Homes in the City" was held on 19 April at the National Centre RUSSIA.
