Original Exhibition Title: Владимир Богданов. Ретроспектива. В рамках программы «Классики российской фотографии» Russia Moscow 2017 54 Russian English, Russian

In a nutshell

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.

Curators(s)

Elena Misalandi

BioElena Misalandi is a specialist in Soviet photography, Deputy Director of the Multimedia Art Museum, Moscow (MAMM), and the Chief Curator of the Moscow House of Photography. A film studies graduate from VGIK (under the mentorship of M. Vlasov), Elena oversees the museum’s photography collection, focusing on its research and preservation. Her work significantly contributed to the study and promotion of Soviet-era cultural heritage in photography.

Mediator(s)

Sergey Zykov

BioSergey Zykov is an artist, musician, and curator dedicated to contemporary music and youth engagement. As a participant and program curator for the Kymatic contemporary music ensemble and a specialist in educational programs for the V-A-C Foundation, he focuses on making curatorial projects accessible to children and teenagers. Previously, Zykov curated the music direction at the Multimedia Art Museum (MAMM) and the musical block at the ZIL Cultural Centre. A graduate of the Moscow Architectural Institute, he also studied t at the BAZA Institute of Contemporary Art, where he explored innovative intersections of art and music.

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