"The Nature of the Object. Contemporary Design and Traditions" Exhibition: Editor's Choice

Contents:

• Alexander Ivasenko — «Horses»
• Daria Bobrova — «Golden Thistle»
• Evgenia Goltseva — «Volga and Oka» matry
• Irina Batkova — «Bumblebees and Butterflies» tapestry
• Konstantin Verin, Daria Verina and Ivan Zakharov — «Cunning Pony Sneaking Behind the Hay» stand
• Olga Silantyeva — «Mirrors-elements (sun, water, land)"

The Moscow Design Museum, located in the West Wing of the New Tretyakov Gallery, presents an exhibition dedicated to the cultural code, crafts, and traditions of Russia. The exhibition features 43 works by artists, executed in a variety of techniques and materials, that reference the rich heritage of the country's decorative and applied arts. The exhibition explores the connection between contemporary art and folk traditions, emphasizing the importance of crafts in shaping Russia's cultural identity.

In addition to product design, the exhibition features video and sound art, as well as fragrances. However, we chose six "physical" exhibits, as we value the quality and craftsmanship of traditional crafts. These works stand out for their uniqueness and artistic value, emphasizing the importance of the material aspect of art in the modern world.

Alexander Ivasenko - "Horses"

The Nizhny Novgorod photographer returned to traditional handicrafts and began creating figurines from the boards of old houses. His works are reminiscent of the works of artisans of the Russian North. His first figurine was a horse, which he saw at a craftsman's in Gorodets but was unable to purchase. This inspiration became the impetus for his creativity, and he reproduced the image himself.

Daria Bobrova — «Golden "Thistle"

A Moscow artist created vases for the "Tryn*Trava" exhibition that are distinguished by their sincerity and naivety. These artistic objects are inspired by ancient Eastern philosophy and resemble blooming lotuses, symbolizing the harmony and beauty of nature. Each element of the vases reflects deep cultural traditions, making them not only aesthetically pleasing but also imbued with meaning. The exhibition demonstrates the artist's unique approach to combining contemporary art and philosophical ideas, inviting viewers to reflect on the connection between man and nature.

Evgenia Goltseva - "Volga and Oka" Matryoshka Dolls

The artist was born near Semyonov, the place where the famous Matryoshka doll was created. In her family, wooden dolls were treated with respect and had a practical purpose: they were used to store not only small objects but also valuables, such as gold teeth. Today, Evgenia creates her "matryoshka dolls," combining art and design. The Sanskrit word "matra" denotes a period of time equal to an inhalation and exhalation, and is closely associated with the famous Matryoshka doll. As the artist states, "We are what we allow others to put inside us." These works reflect a deep philosophy and a unique perspective on traditional Russian toys, giving them new meaning in a modern context.

Irina Batkova — Tapestry "Bumblebees and Butterflies"

Irina Batkova, curator of the exhibitions "The Nature of the Object" and "Tryn*Trava," as well as a designer and artist, presented her collection at the exhibition, including her own works. She is the founder of the brand "Bird Sirin," which specializes in silk products, but this exhibition featured a tapestry inspired by surrealism and art nouveau.

Konstantin Verin, Daria Verina and Ivan Zakharov - "Cunning Pony Sneaking Behind the Hay" Sideboard

The Odingeniy design studio offers original and ironic interior pieces that bring uniqueness to any space. One striking example is their symbolic guardian of the family hearth – a horse transformed into an attractive six-legged pony. These unusual solutions highlight the studio's creative approach to design and make every detail of the interior unique.

Olga Silantyeva - "Element Mirrors (Sun, Water, Earth)"

Olga Silantyeva, a Moscow resident, claims that the mirrors she creates are inspired by Slavic ornaments that reflect the elements of nature. These mirrors also resemble combs, emphasizing the connection with the traditions of Russian folk design. Inspiration from deep history and culture imbues the pieces with uniqueness and character, making them not only interior elements but also bearers of cultural heritage.

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