By Elena Bormotova: The National Art Museum presented a monumental retrospective of how Minsk changed over the course of a century. The exhibition is timed to the celebration of the 950th anniversary since the capital was founded. Artists of different generations and artistic traditions show visitors how they see Minsk – both festive and everyday.
The exhibition features a great number of works by a creative dynasty of the Volkovs. The three generations have become true chroniclers of the city.
All in all, the Museum has about 500 canvases with images of Minsk, and they make up a substantial documentary material for historians of architecture and fashion. One can study how people dressed in the 1950s and what games children played in the 1960s. The pictures also show streets and buildings that no longer exist. However, on the canvases of many painters of different decades, one can spot unique architectural landmarks – such as the Holy Spirit Cathedral and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary – that help recognize Minsk.
Traditionally, the National Museum of Art will host its annual September Night event. A series of excursions will be held in Minsk, and everyone will get a chance to learn about Minsk from the paintings and then to walk about the city and see how it has changed over time.
