Exploring Georgia’s Soviet-Era History in New Tbilisi Exhibition Amid Protests
The Tbilisi Massacre of 9 April 1989, when Soviet troops violently quashed a peaceful protest in the city, remains a poignant memory for the people of Georgia. This date serves as a reminder of Georgia’s struggle for independence and the lasting impact of Soviet rule.
Recently, on 9 April, thousands of Georgians gathered to protest a contentious “foreign agent” law. Concurrently, the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts opened an exhibition titled “From Soviet Memory to April 9,” providing a critical examination of Georgia’s complex history. The exhibition features a weathered bust of Lenin, symbolizing the political turmoil of that era.
The exhibition showcases works by different artists reflecting on Georgia’s Soviet experience. From social realist traditions to depictions of national and religious motifs, the artworks aim to reclaim symbols and narratives associated with Georgia’s relationship with Russia.
The exhibition’s curator emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the Soviet past through art and cultural expression. Meanwhile, at the Tbilisi Art Fair, artists are responding to the political climate with pieces that unravel Georgia’s Soviet memory.
Artists like Tedo Rekhviashvili are exploring Georgia’s history through symbolic works, while others like David Natidze are using art to address tensions related to Russia and the Soviet past. The art scene in Tbilisi serves as a platform for intercultural exchange, bringing together artists from various backgrounds to create meaningful dialogues through art.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.