History of Russia: “Holidays in Russia” exhibition from the State Russian Museum kicks off in St. Petersburg

A new exhibit “Holidays in Russia” is kicking off on December 8th 2011 at the Russian State Museum, Benois Wing in St. Petersburg.

This is the first time the exhibition presents the theme of festivities in the Russian art of 18th – 20th cc. so fully and widely. The exposition features 125 paintings, graphic works, the works of decorative and applied and folk art from the collection of the State Russian Museum.

The exhibition gives a chance to trace the evolution of a holiday theme from 18th century, the time when public and folk holidays as well as their rites, customs and traditions for the first time appeared in oeuvre of Russian artists. Easter divine services, religious processions, balls, colorful celebrations of Maslenitsa and other relevant plots were reflected in paintings and graphic works, items of the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory and works of folk masters.

A special section of the exposition is devoted to the theme of Soviet holidays revealed in art. Canvases of I. I. Brodsky, P. D. Buchkin, A. I. Samokhvalov, A. M. Gerasimov, alongside with the posters and examples of the applied arts present official public holidays and memorable dates (Labor Day, Victory Day, November 7th) as a magnificent action. Another, everyday or religious aspect of this festive theme can be discovered in works by Yu. P. Kugach, D. M. Shakhovskoy, Z. P. Arshakuni, T. G. Nazarenko and other artists of the 2nd half of 20th century – early 21st century.