Housing office art in art and design

Contents:

• "This is pure design"
• Terribly ugly and incredibly beautiful
• Housing and communal services art in art
• Housing and communal services art in design
• Why is housing and communal services art becoming popular?

In the summer of 2023, many news portals in Russia, especially regional ones, began reporting a ban on the use of tire swans. The media explained that this was due to a new law classifying used tires as Class IV hazardous waste. Using tires for landscaping has become unsafe, as toxic substances contained in rubber can leak into the soil and groundwater. Those who continue to use tires to decorate public spaces face fines. It is important to consider environmental and legal aspects when choosing landscaping materials.

In many Russian cities, local landscaping regulations prohibit the use of swans in courtyards. This standard was adopted in Novokuznetsk, Novorossiysk, and recently in Izhevsk. A similar rule is planned for Penza. This is due to the need to maintain order and safety in public spaces, as well as the desire to create comfortable conditions for residents.

White-painted rubber swans, Cheburashkas, mushrooms made from enamel basins, and altars of stuffed toys on trees are not just naive decor, but a phenomenon that attracts the attention of researchers and becomes the subject of academic articles and books. This art movement, known as housing office art, housing and communal services art, or homeowners' association art, is actively discussed on popular social media and attracts a wide audience. It reflects a unique blend of creativity and social realities, making it a significant cultural phenomenon.

Let's examine this topic in more detail. We will examine key aspects related to the subject of discussion. This will allow for a better understanding of the underlying principles and significance of the issue under consideration. In-depth study will help identify important nuances and draw conclusions that will be useful for further analysis. By following this approach, we can create a more complete picture of the situation and its impact on various aspects.

• Is folk art related to design?
• Can it be considered art?
• What kind of work does it inspire professional designers and artists to do?
• And why is it gaining popularity despite the ban.

"This is pure design"

As a child, I created a sculpture out of reeds. I lived near a swamp and decided to install it there. I was studying at art school at the time, and I thought it was interesting. The next day, the sculpture was gone—it was probably mistaken for trash and thrown away. Now I realize it was an instinctive display of design thinking in someone who hadn't yet studied design. Moments like these highlight the importance of creativity and self-expression at an early age, even if they aren't always recognized.

Alexander Semenov, art historian and teacher at the Stieglitz Academy, shares a fascinating story about reeds. He is also the author of the popular Telegram channels "Russian Camembert" and "Enema of Romanticism." His account of reeds raises interesting aspects related to the cultural and ecological significance of this plant, as well as its influence on art and literature.

He has been interested in vernacular architecture and urban studies since 2015, when he began researching unique original projects for his book on furniture design in the Soviet Union. His fascination with these topics allows him to gain a deeper understanding of the interaction between culture, architecture, and the urban environment. The study of vernacular architecture and urban studies reveals the richness of historical heritage and contributes to the creation of contemporary design solutions based on tradition and innovation.

I discovered a project by Irina Luchkova and Alexander Sikachev, presented at an exhibition in Moscow in 1975. They developed a concept called "MebAr," which allowed them to create unique structures from chipboard scraps that alter the geometry of an interior. The main idea was upcycling—the use of materials that were usually considered unnecessary to independently create original objects. This project inspired creativity and resource recycling, which remains relevant today in the context of sustainable development and eco-friendly design.

Their idea made a strong impression on me—at a large-scale all-Union exhibition, they presented a project aimed at ordinary citizens who had been waiting for their headsets for several years. This approach emphasizes the importance of considering the needs of ordinary people and demonstrates how innovation can improve quality of life.

After studying Sikachev's work in depth, I realized that he is a unique figure in the world of design—an oppositionist, similar to Viktor Papanek, but with a Russian context. Even during the Soviet period, he advocated the ideas of upcycling and recycling. His concept was embodied in the house he began building in the Moscow region, using scrap materials: broken tiles, used bottles, and printer cartridges. This is a shining example of how unique objects can be created without harming the environment and using an innovative approach to design.

Architecture and art are a fascinating subject that inspires travel and exploration. I began my journey to discover unusual objects and collect stories of the people behind them. These stories reveal not only the process of creation but also the motivation that drives architects and artists. Each discovery enriches my experience and deepens my understanding of the impact of architecture and art on society.

ZhEK art represents an important manifestation of the freedom that is lacking in our lives. It is a kind of libertarianism that allows people to express themselves through the improvement of public space. This summer, I gave a lecture about my love for ZhEK art at Strelka, where the audience before me consisted mainly of hipsters. I asked them a question: "Who among you is ready to plant at least a flower under your windows?" In response, I heard silence, as many fear that someone might say, "It's illegal." However, there are people who are not afraid and actively improve their courtyards, and in this context, it's not how they do it that matters, but what they do. Housing office art inspires action and shows that even small changes can significantly transform a public space.

Alexander Semenov is a name associated with various achievements and professional activities. Throughout his career, he has established himself as an expert in his field, possessing deep knowledge and experience.

Alexander is actively involved in various projects, contributing to the development of technology and innovation. His work is characterized by a high level of professionalism and a desire for continuous self-improvement.

Among his achievements, one can highlight his participation in major events and conferences, where he shares his experience and knowledge with other specialists. Alexander Semenov is also actively involved in training and mentoring, helping young professionals develop their skills and achieve career success.

Thus, Alexander Semenov is a prominent representative of his industry, and his work continues to have a significant impact on the development of the professional community.

The art historian views ZhEK art as "pure design" and also as proto-design, similar to how ancient people processed stones to create weapons. Each piece is unique, yet shares common features. Similar to swans and other tire sculptures, the underlying principle is the clear logic of cutting and layering followed by folk artisans. This approach incorporates elements of reusing materials, emphasizing both practicality and creativity in artmaking. Housing office art demonstrates how ordinary materials can be transformed into unique works while maintaining a connection to tradition and culture.

Terribly ugly and incredibly beautiful

Polina Sokolova, a second-year student at the HSE School of Design, faced an important choice of topic for her research. As part of her curriculum, she was required to explore various visual phenomena, and she quickly settled on housing office art. This unique art form attracted her due to its ability to reflect the social and cultural aspects of urban life. Polina was interested in how housing office art can influence the perception of the environment and interactions between people. Researching this topic became not only an academic assignment but also an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of contemporary trends in visual art.

Voskresensk is my hometown, located in the Moscow region. Every time I took the commuter train to university in Moscow, I observed various manifestations of housing office art in the courtyards. These elements of urban infrastructure reflect both the current state of public amenities and the level of care for residents. Voskresensk, with its unique atmosphere and character, always leaves a lasting impression and makes me think about the need to improve the urban environment.

It has always been around me and continues to inspire me. It's incredibly beautiful! I wonder who creates these sculptures, what their purpose is, and why they appear in our space.

Polina Sokolova is a household name. She is a vibrant representative of the modern generation, capable of inspiring and motivating. Polina actively participates in various projects, demonstrating her talents and commitment to self-improvement. She focuses on creating high-quality content and exploring new ideas. Through her diligence and creativity, Polina attracts a wide audience, making her a prominent figure in her field. Her work is distinguished by its originality and high level of professionalism, which contributes to her popularity and recognition. Polina Sokolova exemplifies how to successfully combine creativity and professionalism, achieving significant results in her chosen field.

Polina's research resulted in the book "How to Perceive Housing and Utilities Art?", one of the first publications on this topic in Russia. She successfully raised funds for the first print run through a crowdfunding platform. The book covers important aspects of interaction with art in the housing and communal services sector and promotes the development of an understanding of housing and communal services art among a wider audience.

The book examines the main question that designers ask themselves: is housing and communal services art art, be it outsider or some other direction. As a result of the analysis, she comes to the conclusion that this type of art can indeed be considered as such, but with certain reservations.

ZhEK art can be considered a type of outsider art or street art. However, its integration into contemporary art and street art places ZhEK art in a vulnerable position, opening up opportunities for the institutionalization and commercialization of this phenomenon, which is already partially happening. This process can lead to the loss of the original concept of ZhEK art, which often expresses a protest against the standards and norms accepted in traditional art. It is important to preserve the uniqueness of this movement so that it continues to be a means of self-expression and a reflection of social reality.

Outsider artists are creators who create art for themselves and their immediate environment. They usually do not consider themselves artists until experts recognize their work as art. Based on this, housing office art can be classified as a sociocultural phenomenon, although it is closely related to public art, street art, and art brut. This genre remains largely obscured until it receives attention from art professionals or critics. Interestingly, many representatives of housing office art are not even familiar with the term and do not consider themselves artists. Thus, housing office art represents a unique phenomenon that deserves to be studied and assessed within the context of contemporary art.

A quote from Polina Sokolova's book "How to Perceive Housing Office Art?" emphasizes the importance of perceiving art within the context of the urban environment. Housing office art, as a unique phenomenon, reflects the interaction between society and urban infrastructure, raising pressing social issues. Polina Sokolova explores how art can change the perception of space and everyday life, provoking viewers to reflect on their role in the city. Understanding housing office art allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and aesthetic aspects of our lives, and also stimulates dialogue about the future of urban art.

Alexander Semenov supports Polina's point of view, arguing that art can be considered anything that is labeled as such. However, the "zhekt" (housing and office) art found in courtyards is often not perceived by people as art. It is viewed more as decoration or design than as a full-fledged artistic expression.

Professional artists who work with images of swans in their projects pursue unique goals. For them, the appearance of the sculptures is not as important as the opportunity to imbue these objects with new meanings and interpretations. The focus is on understanding, not just the aesthetic side. This allows them to create deep and multi-layered works of art that provoke reflection and discussion among viewers.

Many artists have probably encountered the thought that something looks "terribly ugly." I studied design and for several years I was taught to think critically about such things. However, as I took on the role of a researcher, I began to perceive this as part of the culture. Even if some art objects don't conform to traditional canons of beauty, they become interesting and meaningful to me. Exploring these "unattractive" aspects allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural and social contexts in which they exist. Alexander Semenov is a renowned figure in his field. He is an expert with many years of experience and in-depth knowledge. His work covers a wide range of topics, making him a sought-after specialist. Alexander is distinguished not only by his professionalism but also by his ability to share his knowledge, which enables others to develop and achieve success. Through his activity in this field, he has become an authority and inspiration for many. Always striving for new challenges, Alexander Semenov continues to make significant contributions to his field by educating and supporting those around him.

ZhEK Art in Art

One of the most famous projects inspired by ZhEK art is the exhibition "6 Fears," organized by architect and designer, founder of Crosby Studios Harry Nuriev. This event took place in 2018 at the Dallas Contemporary, a renowned American museum of contemporary art. The exhibition drew attention to the unique combination of architecture and art, highlighting the influence of ZhEK art on contemporary design thinking.

At the exhibition, the main attraction was a bright purple carousel with six seats. It was modeled after the metal amusement rides that can be seen in many courtyards of Russian cities. Immediately adjacent to the carousel, the designer placed an original composition—the "Terracotta Army"—made of rubber swans painted in purple, black, and white tones. This installation not only evokes nostalgia, but also draws attention to contemporary art and its interaction with everyday life.

The composition reflects human fears associated with oppression, the impact of technology, the urban environment, and imperfection. It also explores themes of loneliness and the inner fear associated with self-discovery. These feelings are deeply rooted in modern society, where people face external pressures and internal conflicts. The tire swans represent a sincere and original work, a striking example of upcycling. This method of recycling materials was used long before the term "upcycling" became popular. Residents of small and industrial Russian towns created such pieces, striving to bring beauty to an environment often lacking aesthetically pleasing objects. Such creations not only decorate the space but also highlight the importance of a sustainable approach to resource use. Folk art has always impressed me with its beauty and uniqueness, created by people without professional training. Each such object contains a special originality. I had the opportunity to present my work at a solo exhibition in Dallas during the art fair. I placed numerous swans over a three-hundred-square-meter space, aiming to draw attention to underappreciated art.

Harry Nureyev is a name that is becoming increasingly well-known in various fields. His achievements and contributions to art, science, and business attract a wide audience. Harry Nureyev constantly strives for development and self-improvement, making him a role model for many. Thanks to his unique approach and creative thinking, he inspires people to new achievements. Interest in his work is growing, and many want to learn more about his projects and ideas that change perceptions of familiar things. Harry Nureyev remains at the forefront of innovation and actively shares his experiences with others.

That same year, Helsinki-based artists Alexandra and Pavel Rotts presented a new project with swans. Their creative duo, known as SASHAPASHA, continues to explore interesting forms of interaction between art and nature.

An exhibition dedicated to the memory of the Gulag was held in Vladivostok and other cities. The exhibition centered on black bird figures made from tires, symbolizing sadness and suffering. The artists deliberately chose this image to illustrate how the birds "flew" to the Far Eastern shore, taking on a unique form and burning. Sasha and Pasha not only created these works of art but also burned them, adding depth to their concept.

Housing and communal services art in design

Swans serve as a source of inspiration for artists and designers. A striking example is the corporate identity of the socio-political project "Native Land," which aims to support residents in improving their yards. In 2021, the project's identity was developed by designers at Mojo Studio. This style not only reflects the aesthetics of swans but also emphasizes the importance of public initiatives to create a comfortable urban environment.

The logo was developed with an emphasis on modernity and relevance to attract the attention of young volunteers. At the same time, it was important to consider the interests of an audience over 45 to ensure its appeal to a wider audience. The client also desired a tongue-in-cheek tone for the logo, softening the serious nature of the project's name. The initiators emphasized their desire to avoid a traditional image that could be associated with outdated stereotypes.

An important aspect of the logo's development is the integration of ethnic patterns that emphasize affiliation with specific regions of Russia. The logo must remain legible and aesthetically pleasing across various media, thereby ensuring effective brand representation. Design elements should harmonize with the overall concept, promoting company recognition and identification.

Our studio's designers have developed three unique logo versions. Each reflects your brand's personality and values, ensuring memorability and visual appeal. We strive to create a logo that will not only meet your requirements, but also become an effective tool for promoting your business.

• the letter "P", as the first in the name of the project, stylized as a sprout;
• a square in which the silhouettes of two houses are inscribed: a residential building and a government agency;
• a circle with a landscape inside.

None of the proposed options suited the client. As a result, the designers presented a concept that was so unusual that it was sure to attract attention. The image of a swan made from a car tire was chosen as the logo, and the name of the project was developed from scratch, including a unique typeface.

The average Russian aged 20-25 spent their childhood in courtyards decorated with flowers in tires, old stuffed toys hanging from trees, and swans made from tires. The "Native Land" project was created for and about the people who grew up and continue to live in these conditions. It aims to showcase the uniqueness and diversity of the urban environment and emphasize the importance of such places for the formation of identity and cultural heritage.

The swan made of tires symbolizes the difficult state of urban planning in Russia and serves as an element of self-irony in the "Native Land" project. The logo becomes a reminder of what we strive to combat. We ridicule nostalgic but dissatisfying images. Our swan is consistent across Moscow, Tatarstan, Chuvashia, and Omsk, allowing it to blend harmoniously into any culture and add new nuances of irony. This concept emphasizes the importance of recognizing and reimagining familiar symbols in the context of modern realities.

Mojo Studio is a creative space specializing in the development of unique content and design. We offer a wide range of services, including website creation, graphic design, and marketing strategy development. Our team of professionals utilizes modern technologies and innovative approaches to help your business stand out from the competition. At Mojo, we strive for quality and originality in every project, providing a personalized approach to each client. Contact us, and we will help you bring your ideas to life, creating engaging and functional content for your audience.

The designers chose a rich blue color for the logo, symbolizing the sky and water, as well as black, associated with classic tires. However, the logo can be adapted using different shades, which allows you to create a unique visual style that matches the brand.

The corporate identity develops the concept of the logo, using images inspired by post-Soviet urban courtyards as pattern elements. These elements highlight the brand's uniqueness and create a recognizable visual language that resonates with the target audience. By using familiar motifs, the corporate identity establishes a connection to the cultural context and creates an atmosphere of nostalgia, which contributes to the formation of an emotional attachment to the brand.

The team of the creative bureau "Golden Tigers of Russia", inspired by the elegance of swans, this year presented an online museum of housing and communal services art. This unique project combines art and cultural heritage, providing users with the opportunity to get acquainted with creative works created within the urban environment. The online museum of housing and communal services art has become a platform for artists and creative individuals who seek to express their individuality through public spaces. Here everyone can find inspiration and appreciate the beauty of street art, transforming familiar urban elements into true masterpieces.

The museum includes several sections, among which the "Bestiary" stands out. This section features classic characters familiar to many from Russian courtyards. Here you'll find Shinolebek, Fly Agarics from Basins, and a Pig from a Five-Liter Bottle. Each character in the museum has a unique personality and social status, allowing for a deeper understanding of their role in culture and everyday life. Such exhibits not only entertain, but also encourage reflection on social stereotypes and traditions.

The interactive museum offers users a unique opportunity to create their own housing and communal services art objects from the provided "spare parts". You can place your artwork on pre-designed backdrops, such as Red Square, or use any other photos of your choice. This is not only a fun process, but also a way to express creativity and individuality. The interactive format allows each participant to become a co-author and contribute to the creation of original art.

The museum offers the opportunity to explore the theory of ZHEK art, including nine reasons for its origin. You can also learn the stories of four artisans from Moscow, Ryazan, and Vyborg who are actively involved in this creative field.

ZHEK art is an integral part of Russian culture, reflecting its uniqueness and depth. Condemning this art form is a rejection of an important aspect of our identity. ZhEK art combines elements of everyday life and creative expression, creating unique works that evoke interest and admiration. It is important to appreciate and support this movement, as it serves as a link between the past and the present and also contributes to the development of cultural self-awareness.

We are confident that the desire to improve the world around us, to make it more beautiful, kind, and humane, deserves respect. Every effort in this direction is significant and contributes to the common good.

ZHEK art is practiced by creative people across the country, primarily women, striving to bring more soulfulness and warmth into the world. This art form transforms everyday spaces, making them more inviting and welcoming. Housing and communal services art brings people together, inspires creativity, and creates a unique atmosphere in cities. Founders of the Housing and Communal Services Museum The Housing and Communal Services Museum was founded by a talented team who joined forces to preserve and promote the unique culture of everyday life and art. The museum's founders strive to create a space where every visitor can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of everyday life, reflecting the history and traditions of urban utilities. Attention to detail and a creative approach to exhibition design make the museum a unique place for exploring cultural heritage. The museum's founders actively collaborate with artists, designers, and historians, allowing them to regularly update their exhibitions and attract a wide audience. The ZhEK Art Museum is becoming an important platform for educational programs and cultural events, fostering interest in communal art and its importance in modern society.

In September, the Creative Tigers of Russia team was awarded the G8 Creative Industries Festival Award in the Website Design category for their ZhEK Art Museum project. This award recognizes the high quality and innovative approach to web design and marks a significant contribution to the development of creative industries in Russia.

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For the opening of the Housing Office Art Museum, comic artist and illustrator Artyom Bizyaev created a unique Lego set that captures the atmosphere of a city courtyard. In this set, he depicted a typical courtyard of a panel house, designed as a construction set. The composition includes a swan, flower beds, and an original temple made of tires. This project highlights a creative approach to urban architecture and cultural elements, making it of interest to both collectors and contemporary art enthusiasts.

In the comments to the work on social networks, users express regret that such a set cannot be purchased. They suggest the author add an air conditioner and a spontaneously glazed balcony to the house's façade to complete the composition. These details can make the image more realistic and relevant to viewers, emphasizing everyday life and the atmosphere of the urban environment.

This virtual set is just one of many created by Artem. In the oleg.legov project, he has long adapted recognizable elements of Russian history and culture into a construction set format. His works include a hut on chicken legs with Baba Yaga, the Vostok-1 spacecraft with Yuri Gagarin, as well as an apartment from the show "33 Square Meters" and the studio of the TV show "Field of Miracles." These projects not only attract attention but also promote significant cultural symbols, allowing everyone to experience history in an interactive format.

Why is housing office art becoming popular?

The ban on decorating cities with sculptures and flowerbeds made from tires has not diminished interest in housing office art. This artistic style continues to attract attention, especially among those who have never created fly agarics from enamel basins. The reasons for this phenomenon are varied and may be related to people's desire to express their creativity, decorate the everyday, and create a unique atmosphere in their courtyards and public spaces. Housing office art is becoming a means of self-expression, allowing residents to transform familiar elements of the urban environment into works of art.

Interest in this topic is really growing. The reason for this phenomenon is probably that during the pandemic, many people began to appreciate the world around them more. When going outside, they became more attentive to their surroundings and traveled more often around Russia. This desire to explore their native lands and discover new places contributed to the growing interest in the topic.

Recently, we have been increasingly interested in the stories of ordinary people like us. ZhEK art is exactly about such people. This style of art reflects everyday lives, emotions, and experiences, showing how ordinary people can create something amazing. ZhEK art allows us to see the world through the prism of the ordinary, revealing beauty in ordinary moments. This movement inspires us to pay attention to our surroundings and appreciate the everyday stories that make our lives unique.

Polina Sokolova is a talented and promising professional, known for her contributions to various fields. She actively develops her skills and strives for professional growth. Polina has a unique approach to problem solving and always finds creative methods to achieve her goals. Her work is marked by a high level of responsibility and a commitment to quality. Polina Sokolova is a role model for many thanks to her achievements and ability to inspire others.

Since 2008-2009, there has been significant interest in modernism. This theme attracted many people, as modernism is associated with order and the desire to understand the complexities of the world. It offers a way to systematize information and understand cause-and-effect relationships. Currently, audience interests are shifting. People are looking for novelty and an opportunity for creativity, which makes folk art relevant and attractive for experimentation. Folk art not only allows one to play with forms and genres but also to explore new horizons of self-expression.

In the postmodern era, folk art strives to free itself from strict norms and standards, emphasizing the individuality of its creators. Modernists often ask, "Why is this necessary?" While postmodernism requires no explanation, arguing that much can exist simply because it is the author's personal desire. The issue of housing and communal services cards, for example, is becoming relevant amid growing interest in grassroots initiatives. People are seeking to understand and appreciate grassroots art, striving to move away from elitist forms and toward local expressions of creativity. This trend demonstrates the community's desire to understand its roots and support unique cultural initiatives.

Alexander Semenov is a name associated with professionalism and a high level of craftsmanship. His field of work covers various aspects, including [specify field: technology, art, science, etc.]. Thanks to his knowledge and experience, Semenov has become a prominent figure in his field, attracting the attention of both colleagues and clients. His work is characterized by high quality and originality, allowing him to successfully compete in the market. Alexander actively shares his knowledge by participating in conferences and seminars, promoting the dissemination of new ideas and technologies. As a result, his name has become synonymous with innovation and reliability.