Mikhail Grachev. Soviet Daily Life. 1930s—1960s
Russia
Moscow
2019
62
In Mikhail Grachev. Soviet Daily Life. 1930s—1960s through an array of photographs, artifacts, and multimedia installations, attendees are invited to experience the complexities of everyday existence during a transformative era in Russian history. The exhibition captures the interplay of culture, politics, and personal narratives, reflecting how art and design were interwoven into the fabric of daily routines — from the bustling streets to communal celebrations. By showcasing both the mundane and the extraordinary, the exhibition offers a unique lens on how people lived, worked, and dreamt in a time of significant socio-political change, encouraging visitors to ponder the lasting impact of this period on contemporary society and culture.
Why should you watch this?
Within this exhibition you can immerse yourself in a pivotal chapter of history at this thought-provoking exhibition that brings to life Soviet daily life from the 1930s to the 1960s. Explore a rich collection that reveals the nuances of everyday existence during an era marked by both creative expression and political upheaval. From candid photographs to everyday objects, the showcase highlights the resilience and spirit of individuals navigating a complex social landscape. Beyond mere nostalgia, this exhibition invites you to reflect on how art shaped identity and community, providing timeless lessons on the interplay between personal life and broader societal movements.
Vasily Ulitin. Elegy
Russia
Moscow
2018
63
Vasily Ulitin. Elegy is a poignant exploration of memory and the human experience, showcasing contemporary artworks that delve into themes of loss and nostalgia. This compelling exhibition brings together a diverse array of artists, each offering a unique lens on the fragility of existence and the echoes of the past. Through striking visuals and thought-provoking installations, visitors are invited to reflect on the transient nature of life and the artifacts of memory that linger in our minds. The careful curation weaves a narrative that transcends individual perspectives, creating a shared space for solace and contemplation.
Why should you watch this?
This exhibition is an emotional journey that invites you to confront the depth of human experience through the lens of contemporary creativity. By showcasing artists who grapple with themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time, this exhibition resonates with anyone reflecting on their own stories. Each piece acts as a portal into personal and collective memories, encouraging introspection and dialogue. The thought-provoking installations challenge you to consider how we hold onto the past and the beauty and pain that intertwine in our lives. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply curious, this guided tour offers a unique opportunity to engage with profound artistic expressions that linger in the heart and mind long after you leave.
Augury of Cosmos
Russia
Moscow
2018
78
The exhibition Augury of Cosmos showcases the innovative works of contemporary artists, who masterfully blend traditional techniques with modern themes to explore the complexities of human experience. Through a diverse array of mediums, including painting and installation, viewers engage with the interplay of memory, identity, and the passage of time. Thought-provoking pieces challenge conventional narratives, encouraging a dialogue between the past and present. This exhibition not only highlights unique artistic vision but also serves as a reflection on the broader cultural landscape, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of contemporary art.
Why should you watch this?
Step into the transformative world of contemporary art at the exhibition Augury of Cosmos, showcasing the extraordinary work of artist Mikhail Slogunov. This immersive event delves into the intricate relationship between identity, memory, and the myriad forces that shape our perceptions of self and otherness. Slogunov’s evocative pieces challenge viewers to confront societal norms and personal biases, making it not just an exhibition, but a profound exploration of the human experience. With a diverse array of multimedia installations, the show encourages dialogue and introspection, inviting you to engage deeply with art that resonates on both emotional and intellectual levels.
Nissky. Horizon
Russia
Moscow
2018
56
Nissky. Horizon is a compelling exhibition at the Institute of Russian Realistic Art that explores the intricate relationship between contemporary art and traditional Russian realism. Featuring a diverse array of artists, the exhibition invites viewers to engage with works that reflect on cultural heritage while pushing artistic boundaries. Each piece serves as a dialogue between past and present, showcasing how contemporary creators reinterpret classical themes and techniques. This fusion not only honors the legacy of Russian art but also challenges perceptions, encouraging a deeper understanding of identity and artistic expression in today’s globalized context. Through thought-provoking installations and evocative imagery, Nissky. Horizon celebrates the enduring relevance of realism in contemporary discourse.
Why should you watch this?
This exhibition invites you to explore the intricate interplay between tradition and innovation in contemporary art. This showcase features a diverse array of works that challenge conventional narratives, offering fresh perspectives on cultural identity and artistic expression. By engaging with both established and emerging artists, the exhibition creates a dialogue that resonates with today’s societal themes. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness how contemporary art reflects and reframes our understanding of the world — each piece serves as a unique lens through which to view the complexities of modern life. Immerse yourself in this vibrant exploration and discover the transformative power of art.
History of the Photo Club “Riga”
Latvia
Riga
2017
45
In the early 1960s, photography emerged as a recognized art form, yet, in Latvia, it struggled for acceptance in traditional art spaces. The establishment of the Photo Club “Rīga” in 1962 marked a pivotal moment, fostering a vibrant community that embraced photography’s artistic potential. This collective became a vital force in shaping the perception of art photography both locally and globally, drawing in visionary talents who pushed creative boundaries. The club’s ongoing legacy reflects not just the evolution of photography as an art form but also its enduring relevance within contemporary Latvian culture. As it adapts to new challenges and styles, the Photo Club remains a cherished cornerstone, celebrating its historical impact while inspiring future generations of photographers.
Why should you watch this?
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?
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)
Why should you watch this?
If our soup can could speak: Mikhail Lifshitz and the Soviet Sixties
Russia
Moscow
2018
59
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.
Why should you watch this?
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.
Vladimir Bogdanov. Retrospective | Part of “The Classics of Russian Photography” Program
Russia
Moscow
2017
80
As part of the Classics of Russian Photography program, MAMM presents the first large-scale retrospective of renowned contemporary photographer Vladimir Bogdanov. The exhibition features over 100 photographs from the Multimedia Art Museum, Moscow, highlighting his work from the 1960s to the 1990s. Born in 1937, Bogdanov’s artistic journey began during the Khrushchev thaw, a period that allowed artists to explore themes beyond socialist realism. This era marked a shift where humanism replaced official dogma, enabling photographers to capture the lives of ordinary people. In 1955, while studying at the Textile Institute, he joined the Leningrad photo club VDK, transforming his passion into a profession. His compelling images reflect a deep connection to Russian society and its complexities during a time of change.
Why should you watch this?
The retrospective exhibition of Vladimir Bogdanov at MAMM is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of Russian photography. With over 100 photographs spanning three decades, it showcases Bogdanov’s profound ability to capture the nuances of everyday life against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society. Emerging during the Khrushchev thaw, his work offers a rare glimpse into a time when artists could break free from the constraints of socialist realism. Each image is not just a photograph but a reflection of human experience and resilience, making this exhibition a poignant exploration of cultural identity and history. Engaging with Bogdanov’s art invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of Russian society, enriching their understanding of both past and present.