The exhibition project “Russian Tradition”: a new stage in the study of the artistic and spiritual traditions of the Russian people

Abstract

This article analyses the State Russian Museum’s exhibition project “Russian Tradition”, prepared by the authors. It provides an overview of the exhibition's composition, structure and content, as well as the related events which took place in three Russian museums in 2025–2026. The article also presents the project's scientific concept, goals and objectives, primarily focused on the study of spiritual and artistic traditions. Principles for structuring a folk art exhibition within a museum setting are established on an interdisciplinary methodological framework. Since a unified methodology for studying interdisciplinary exhibitions has not yet been developed, their comprehensive analysis remains under-researched, which is why this topic is addressed in this paper.

In developing the exhibition concept, the authors drew on the theoretical works of M.A. Nekrasova, I.Ya. Boguslavskaya, T.M. Razina and other folk art researchers. This article builds upon many years of experience in exhibition work, interaction with artists and folk artisans, and the preparation of several publications on the issues central to the “Russian Tradition” project. This approach has allowed the authors to present contemporary scholarly perspectives on the history of folk art and creativity in Russia.

The systematization of these facts allows for an in-depth examination of the concept of tradition, as well as pressing issues in the current state of traditional art. Previously unpublished, cutting-edge data on the state and transformation of traditional crafts at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries are introduced into scholarly circulation, alongside works submitted by their authors for exhibitions at the Russian Museum.

Particular attention is paid to the personality of the custodian of tradition. Alongside folk artisans and artists representing various forms of folk art and entire enterprises, the work of such an outstanding artist as V.M. Zaitsev is examined. Contemporary groups conducting research into traditional Russian costume and dolls in traditional dress are also highlighted. A theoretical understanding of the concept of ‘keepers of tradition’ is presented, framing them as unique creative individuals who are spiritually connected to the culture and nature of their region, and who serve as bearers of collective experience and folk epics.

Based on their own exhibition and publishing experience, as well as the feedback from the scientific and museum communities, the authors conclude that the scientific novelty of the project lies in the multifaceted nature of its objectives. The project succeeds not only in narrating the spiritual traditions of the Russian people through the expressive power of art, but also in exploring the very destiny of folk art.