Moldova's National Art Museum celebrates 85 years with new exhibition
In 85 years since its establishment, the National Art Museum, which has become a symbol of the cultural heritage of the Republic of Moldova, has been awarded the highest state distinction – the Order of the Republic.
The museum’s permanent national painting exhibition has been reopened, showcasing works by those who laid the foundations of Bessarabian art. This time, however, the works have come to life through new technologies.
"85 years of building and evolving a distinct cultural identity. This space is a great example of how a heritage building can and should be restored and brought to life," said President Maia Sandu.
Among the holders of the title of master in art is restorer Svetlana Chiriac.
"I’ve been working at the museum for 44 years, ever since I was 19. After graduating from college, I was offered a position as a restorer, and that’s when I realized it was my calling. I’ve never regretted accepting it since," said Svetlana Chiriac.
The youngest employee of the museum, Elena Erimia, recently embraced the profession of museum curator.
"It’s a wonderful experience. Every day, I have the chance to meet new people who are passionate about art and share my knowledge of cultural heritage with them," said Elena Erimia.
Employees from all generations have contributed to the reopening of the permanent national painting exhibition, now in a new format.
"A new exhibition, almost entirely updated, except for a few works that are part of the ‘Museums of the Future’ program. Some of the works are being shown for the first time, but of course, we cannot do without the key works of national painting," said the Director of the National Art Museum, Tudor Zbârnea.
The exhibition is complemented by interactive experiences in augmented and virtual reality. For instance, the composition Golden Autumn, created by Mihail Grecu in 1964, has come to life thanks to Pavel Brăila: "For the first time in the museum’s history, we’ve created this virtual reality experience, which brings the spectator closer. It’s a film – when you put on the headset, you experience something special."
"It’s a unique project designed to bring interactive experiences and help visitors see things in greater depth. We’ve used ArtiVive technology, a tool used by over 250,000 creators from more than 100 countries," said Doina Nistor, Director of the ‘Museums of the Future’ program.
In 2023, the museum had 90,000 visitors from both Romania and abroad:
"It’s a place where you can find peace, and every time you visit, you discover something new and wonderful."
"I like that this museum is moving towards the digitalization of art, which will appeal to young people."
"For me, and I believe for our generation, it means preserving what we cherish: the feelings, the emotions captured on canvas and beyond."
The first art gallery in Chișinău was inaugurated on November 26, 1939, by renowned artists, sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală and painter Auguste Baillayre. Today, the museum’s collection consists of 39,000 works of art.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
