On 11 September, the works of Zurab Nizharadze, one of Georgia’s foremost contemporary artists, were presented at the Alexander Chavchavadze House-Museum. It was the first exhibition of the artist’s work since his death in June this year.
Zurab Nizharadze was one of the key representatives of the 50s generation of artists, whose work reflected the trauma of War and Soviet repression. Nizharadze’s art was among the most distinguished and distinctive of his age, characterised by changing influences, themes, and techniques over the years. His creativity led fans and friends to nickname him Pico, in honour of Picasso.
His award-winning work included paintings, graphics, theatre, cinema, and murals, and can be found in the National Art Gallery of Tbilisi, the Tretyakov Art Gallery of Moscow, the Oriental Art Museum of Moscow, the Contemporary Art Gallery of Rio de Janeiro, the Museum Ludwig in Cologne, and in private collections around the world.
The selection of the Tsinandali Estate as the venue has deep symbolism as a place with a rich cultural heritage, the heart of Georgian Romanticism in the nineteenth century. As a place that reflects both the modern and the traditional in Georgian culture, it was the ideal place to honour Nizharadze’s life’s work. Visitors to the museum had the opportunity to view the exhibition for two weeks. The exhibition was held in full compliance with Covid regulations.