Nonconformist & Unofficial Art of the Soviet Union
Cambridge Art Gallery presented a stunning and unique exhibition, “Forbidden Art,” a historical and captivating collection of works by the Soviet Nonconformist Artists.
During the 20th century, the aesthetics of Stalinist Russia was dominated and dictated by the doctrine of Social Realism. All other forms of artistic expression were forbidden and those who deviated from the government control were subject to harsh and cruel repercussions. The collective of artists who comprised the Nonconformist Artists movement consciously rebelled against the oppressive regime and developed a remarkable visual narrative of their struggle, serving as a testament to the creative soul of the artist. This setting became the auspice for the Soviet Nonconformist Artists, their work a direct reflection and reaction of their time.
This dynamic subculture of artists evolved from the socio-political oppression and created masterworks from their desperate and harsh circumstances. It is the history, the reactionary narrative that transcends through these works. Matched only by their flawless execution, the nonconformist artists that comprise the current exhibition “Forbidden Art,” is a privilege to witness. Cambridge Art Gallery was proud to present this extraordinary part of art history. “Forbidden Art” was exhibited from August 25 - October 10, 2008.
Featured Artsists: Pyotr Belenok, Ivan Chiukov, Evengi Dybsky, Nikolai Filatov, Tatiana Nazarenko, Vladmir Nemukhin, Natalia Nesterova, Dmitri Plavinsky, Leonid Purygin, Alexander Stinkov
