Exploring ceramics in Spanish: A virtual sojourn through Mexico
In the heart of Russia, the city of Biysk recently hosted a unique virtual event that aimed to bring the vibrant culture of Mexico closer to home. Organised by Olga Leonťeva, head of the art department at the V.V. Bianki Biysk Local History Museum, the event was a captivating journey that showcased the beauty and diversity of Mexican pottery.
The lecture, delivered in Spanish with Russian translations, offered insights into the rich history and wide variety of pottery styles in Mexico, which are significantly influenced by both European and indigenous views. The event served as a bridge, connecting the artistic traditions of two distant cultures, and potentially inspiring local artisans and audiences in Biysk.
The cultural exchange didn't stop there. The virtual trip was accompanied by a series of workshops and exhibitions. A masterclass on clay modeling using the layering technique and dried flowers, led by Olga Hessina, provided a hands-on experience for those interested in learning traditional Mexican techniques.
The exhibition "Time of Change," featuring work from local youth, is currently open until July 20 at the Biisk Regional Studies Museum named after V.V. Bianki. Each exhibit has its own unique idea and story, according to Yulia, a visitor who recently returned from St. Petersburg. Yulia praised the works of young artists in Biysk, stating they are not inferior to the masters of the capital.
The "Union of Four Elements" was another event held as part of the exhibition, showcasing a diverse range of ceramic items like jugs, bottles, and bowls. Guests were even given the opportunity to view and touch the ceramics, creating a tangible connection with the art.
It's worth noting that the use of unconventional artistic mediums like pastel, acrylic, and gouache is on the rise among artists, offering a fresh take on traditional oil painting. Many students participating in these events are students or graduates of local colleges and youth centres, demonstrating a growing interest in the arts.
In fact, mixed techniques such as pastel with paints are being presented by students, reflecting a desire to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional art forms. This approach was evident in the "Time of Change" exhibition, where each piece showcased a unique blend of styles and ideas.
Last year, Biysk hosted another virtual event, "Biysk - Italy," introducing guests to Italian culture and language. This event, much like the recent virtual trip to Mexico, underscores Biysk's commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting understanding of foreign cultures.
As the world becomes more interconnected, events like these serve as valuable opportunities for cultural exchange, enriching our understanding of the world and fostering a sense of unity. The virtual trip to Mexico in Biysk is a testament to this, bridging the gap between two distinct cultures and inspiring a new generation of artists.
- The "Union of Four Elements" exhibition, featuring a diverse range of ceramic items, provides a tangible connection with traditional Mexican art, demonstrating a growing interest in fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden related arts among local artists in Biysk.
- Last year, Biysk also hosted a virtual event, "Biysk - Italy," showcasing Italian culture and language, further highlighting the city's commitment to travel, food-and-drink, and lifestyle cultural exchanges, fostering a sense of unity in the global community.
- The rise of unconventional artistic mediums like pastel, acrylic, and gouache among artists reflects a lifestyle trend in Biysk, where students and young artists are experimenting with mixed techniques and pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms, particularly in the fields of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden arts.
