CLUBS of the FUTURE. Common Spaces in Transitional Societies
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GASTEV. How to Work
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Notes from the Underground.
Art and Alternative Music in Eastern Europe 1968-1994
The exhibition Notes from the Underground. Art and Alternative Music in Eastern Europe 1968–1994 examines the intersection of underground music and visual arts under communist regimes in Eastern Europe. It highlights how rock, punk, and new wave music, alongside performance art, fashion, and film, became tools of countercultural expression against state control. In response to censorship and scarcity, artists and musicians created homemade instruments, produced Samizdat magazines, and distributed recordings. The exhibition underscores the role of improvisation and irony in resisting authoritarianism, with works from Poland, Yugoslavia, the Soviet Union, and Czechoslovakia, offering a new perspective on how art and music intertwined as forms of dissent.
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In a time where freedom of expression remains a contested issue, Notes from the Underground. Art and Alternative Music in Eastern Europe 1968–1994 draws vital parallels between past and present struggles against authoritarianism. By showcasing how rock, punk, and new wave music intertwined with visual arts to resist state control, the exhibition highlights the subversive power of creativity. From DIY instruments to Samizdat magazines, it captures the spirit of rebellion and improvisation that thrived under repressive regimes, making it a timely exploration of art’s role in confronting oppression and fueling collective resistance.
If our soup can could speak: Mikhail Lifshitz and the Soviet Sixties
The exhibition is dedicated to one of the most enigmatic, mysterious, and controversial philosophers of the USSR and his famous anthology of polemical texts, The Crisis of Ugliness, which criticizes the art of the 20th century. The retrospective showcases never presented before archive documents, Lifshitz’s texts, and artworks in ten interiors, each representing a milestone in the development of modernism or Lifshitz’s thought: 10 rooms – 10 stages of Soviet history – 10 knots in Lifshitz’s biography. The project is the first large-scale analysis attempt of the tense relationship between so-called progressive art and politics in the XX-XXI century.
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This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in the deep connections between art, politics, and society. Lifshitz’s The Crisis of Ugliness offers a rare Soviet critique of modernism, challenging Cubism and Pop Art in ways that still resonate today. The exhibition’s exploration of these ideas through archival materials, artworks, and Lifshitz’s own writings sheds light on the complex relationship between avant-garde art and political ideology. In a time of global crisis, Lifshitz’s critiques are more relevant than ever, inviting viewers to reconsider the role of art in shaping social consciousness.
Alexander Grinberg. Movement. 1920s
Step back into the vibrant world of the 1920s with the Movement. 1920s exhibition, which captures the revolutionary spirit and artistic innovation of this transformative decade. Celebrating a surge of creativity across visual arts, architecture, and design, the exhibit showcases how artists challenged traditional norms and embraced new mediums and themes. Through a carefully curated selection of works and engaging installations, visitors can explore the interplay between art, politics, and society during a time marked by upheaval and change. From the bold geometries of constructivism to the experimental forms of avant-garde movements, Movement. 1920s invites audiences to witness how the decade laid the groundwork for contemporary art, illuminating the ongoing dialogue between past and present in the ever-evolving landscape of visual culture.
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This exhibition features a diverse array of works that reflect the pulse of a society in transformation — bold colors, experimental forms, and a celebration of motion that captures the zeitgeist of post-war optimism. Each piece invites the viewer to engage with the revolutionary ideas that shaped modern art, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the interplay between culture and creativity. It demonstrates how artists of the 1920s broke boundaries and redefined artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary landscape.
KOMAR & MELAMID
KOMAR & MELAMID delves into the fusion of art and ideology, spotlighting the pioneering duo known for their satirical takes on Soviet culture. This exhibition showcases their innovative approach to ‘Sots Art,’ a movement that critiques the socialist aesthetic while playfully engaging with the political and commercial landscapes of the 20th century. Through a diverse array of works, including paintings, installations, and conceptual pieces, Komar and Melamid invite viewers to reconsider the purpose and function of art in society. Their collaboration challenges traditional boundaries, marrying humor with profound sociopolitical commentary—a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art’s dialogue with history and culture.
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This exhibition represents the place where art meets incisive commentary on society and culture. This dynamic duo takes you on a journey through the playful yet poignant realm of Sots Art, characterized by a mix of humor and critique. Their works challenges normative ideals and question the role of art under Soviet influence, making it both a historical exploration and a contemporary dialogue. By engaging with their art, you’ll uncover layers of meaning about ideological constructs, consumerism, and identity. It’s a unique opportunity to reflect on how these themes continue to resonate today. Experience firsthand how Komar and Melamid’s innovative spirit invites a critical look at the world around us — ensuring you walk away with new insights and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of art.
History of the Photo Club “Riga”
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Revolved Revolutions. On the Occasion of Centenary of the Great October Socialist Revolution
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Agitprop Trains
The exhibition delves into a groundbreaking aspect of Russian cultural history birthed from the revolution—mobile propaganda trains. These unique vehicles served as a fusion of art and technology, transforming into vibrant mobile platforms that combined exhibitions, theater, libraries, and cinema on wheels. Launched in 1918 under the directive of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee, these trains traversed vast distances, reaching from Odessa to Irkutsk and engaging communities with their painted exteriors and rich artistic content. Supervised by renowned graphic artist Ignatiy Nivinsky, the trains featured contributions from a diverse array of artists, blending Symbolism with early avant-garde ideas. This exhibition promises an in-depth exploration of their socio-political significance during the Civil War, showcasing archival photos, posters, and various artifacts that capture the ethos of an era where art became instrumental in uniting and inspiring a nation.
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Watching a guided tour of this exhibition is particularly essential in today’s context, as it illuminates the enduring power of art as a vehicle for social change and collective identity. In a world increasingly fractured by division and misinformation, the exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of how creative expression can be mobilized to unite communities and convey critical messages. As contemporary society grapples with its own political upheavals, understanding the historical context of these mobile propaganda trains reveals the importance of merging various forms of media and art to engage the public constructively. This tour not only highlights the innovative spirit of artists who contributed to the movement but also encourages dialogue about the role of culture in shaping our narratives and responding to social challenges.