Russia's First International Ethnography Triennale Launches in Zaraysk, Culminating in Moscow 2030
In Moscow, the National Centre RUSSIA has initiated the inaugural International Ethnography Triennale (TIE) in Zaraysk, under the guidance of curators Elena Yushina and Mehret Mandefro. This initiative will lead to a significant exhibition in Moscow set for 2030, with field research commencing this summer. Zaraysk was chosen due to its rich history, featuring a 22,000-year-old ivory bison sculpture and the literary contributions of Fyodor Dostoevsky. The program "Toward the TIE," running from 2027 to 2030, will concentrate on theme selection, the appointment of expert councils, and educational programs. Yushina seeks to transform ethnography through collaboration with local knowledge holders, involving various Russian regions and international collaborators. Claudia Giraud conducted the interview for Artribune.
Key facts
- The National Centre RUSSIA launched the first International Ethnography Triennale (TIE) in Zaraysk, Moscow region.
- The TIE is curated by Elena Yushina and anthropologist/filmmaker Mehret Mandefro.
- The project will culminate in a major exhibition in Moscow in 2030.
- Field research activities began in summer 2026.
- Zaraysk was chosen for its Paleolithic ivory bison sculpture (over 22,000 years old) and Fyodor Dostoevsky's summer legacy.
- The program 'Toward the TIE' (2027–2030) includes theme approval, expert council appointment, and educational/research/publishing initiatives.
- The main venue will be the new National Centre 'Russia' building in Moscow, with involvement of Russian regions and international partners.
- The artistic program is still being defined; international artists will participate but must engage with local communities.
Entities
Artists
- Elena Yushina
- Mehret Mandefro
- Fëdor Dostoevskij
- Claudia Giraud
Institutions
- Centro Nazionale RUSSIA
- Triennale Internazionale di Etnografia (TIE)
- Artribune
Locations
- Zaraysk
- Russia
- Moscow
- Italy