Revolved Revolutions. On the Occasion of Centenary of the Great October Socialist Revolution
Russia
Moscow
2017
47
The exhibition illuminates the profound influence of the Great October Revolution on Eastern art. Featuring over 100 works from Soviet Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Mongolia, China, and Vietnam, the exhibition showcases a rich tapestry of artistic expressions—embroideries, posters, paper cutouts, and more—that reflect a unique amalgamation of local traditions and Soviet ideologies. Visitors will encounter the cult of personality through portraits of revolutionary leaders, discover the vibrant propaganda posters that redefined societal roles, and engage with stunning engravings depicting the industrial ambitions of China. This exhibition not only highlights the artistic responses to political shifts but also serves as a testament to the complex legacy of the Russian Revolution, revealing how hope, trauma, and cultural identity were woven into the fabric of artistry across nations. Many of these pieces are being showcased to the Russian public for the first time in decades, offering fresh insights into this historical narrative.
Why should you watch this?
Implicit Modernism. Roman Babichev’s Collection. Part I.
Russia
Moscow
2017
123
The exhibition presents Roman Babichev’s collection as a compelling exploration of Soviet modernism, challenged by decades of controversy surrounding the term due to the anti-formalist campaigns of the 1930s and Cold War ideological battles. Offering a fresh lens, the exhibition sheds light on the often-overlooked variety within Soviet art, breaking down entrenched stereotypes and revealing the interconnections among post-avant-garde communities active after the 1932 ban on creative associations. By emphasizing the nuanced expressions of these artists—whose declarations were rendered in their unique painting styles rather than explicit statements—the exhibition invites viewers to reassess the rich tapestry of Soviet artistic heritage through a symbolist perspective, encouraging a more multidimensional understanding of its evolving narrative.
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Only by faith! On the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation
Russia
Saint Petersburg
2017
62
Unveiling the transformative journey of Protestantism, this exhibition showcases around 150 artifacts from the State Museum of the History of Religion, bringing to life the pivotal moments and influential figures, such as Martin Luther, that shaped this movement. Spanning from the 16th century to the present, it delves into the synergy between religion and culture, revealing how Protestant ideals influenced art, literature, and social change. This rich array of historical items not only contextualizes the theological underpinnings of the Reformation but also illustrates its enduring legacy in contemporary society. It is an enlightening exploration that challenges the boundaries between faith and creativity, inviting visitors to reflect on the profound impact of Protestantism on our world today.
Why should you watch this?
In today’s context, this exhibition on Protestantism serves as a crucial reflection on the enduring influence of religion in shaping contemporary values, culture, and identity. As society navigates complex discussions around faith, freedom of expression, and social justice, the historical insights revealed through artifacts and narratives from the Protestant Reformation prompt us to consider how these early movements laid the groundwork for modern thought and civil rights. By revisiting the struggles and triumphs of figures like Martin Luther, we gain a deeper understanding of the ideological battles that resonate in current debates about religious tolerance, individualism, and community life. This exploration invites us to connect the past to the present, encouraging critical dialogue on the role of faith in our increasingly pluralistic world.
GASTEV. How to Work
Russia
Moscow
2019
66
The exhibition GASTEV. How to Work examines the profound influence of Alexey Gastev, a key figure in Soviet thought and the founder of the Central Institute of Labor (CIT). Gastev’s work in the 1920s and 1930s revolutionized labor practices through his development of scientific labor organization (NOT), blending Marxist ideology with avant-garde approaches to efficiency, biomechanics, and human-machine interaction. His theories sought to transform workers into precise, efficient elements of industrial production, reflecting the broader Soviet utopian vision of reshaping society through labor. The exhibition contextualizes Gastev’s role not just as an organizer but as a visionary whose ideas on human potential and mechanization resonate with contemporary discussions on automation and the future of work. Despite his execution during the Stalin’s Great Purge/Terror, Gastev’s legacy continues to provoke thought on the relationship between labor, politics, and the shaping of the modern human.
More at http://avantgarde.center/gastev (in Russian only)
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Agitprop Trains
Russia
Moscow
2018
55
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.
Why should you watch this?
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.