In Irkutsk they are discussing creating a Dashi Namdakov sculpture park and a whole creative complex with a workshop, gallery, and open air exhibition. The project may become part of the renewal of urban space for Irkutsks 355th anniversary and one of the brightest gifts to residents. At the meeting they also discussed the idea of a museum of the Glazkovsky necropolis and the artists possible participation in new cultural projects of the city.
A Dashi Namdakov sculpture park is planned to be opened in Irkutsk. The city mayor discussed this proposal at a meeting with the renowned artist and sculptor.According to the artist’s idea, it could be a creative complex that includes a work area — the artist’s studio, an exhibition gallery of the author’s works, as well as a park with the master’s sculptures.
“I propose creating a new public creative space in Irkutsk, where both my gallery works and those displayed in the open air would be presented. For me, Irkutsk is the beginning of the journey; my first exhibitions took place here, and here I received my first recognition as an artist. And I am glad to continue my cooperation with the city,” said Dashi Namdakov.
Dmitry Berdnikov clarified that on the eve of Irkutsk’s 355th anniversary, one of the pressing issues is the creation of a comfortable urban environment — new public places for rest and leisure for city residents. The creation of the famous sculptor’s creative complex would be an excellent gift to Irkutsk residents for the anniversary.
The city mayor said that the first work on implementing the large-scale “Irkutsk Quarters” project will begin in the spring. The project involves the gradual renovation of 11 historic blocks in the center of Irkutsk. The city mayor suggested that the artist familiarize himself with the concept of the project and, possibly, choose a site that would be suitable for creating a studio, gallery, and sculpture park. At the same time, the city administration will select and offer the master several more site options for placing the complex.
The meeting also discussed the issue of creating a museum of the Glazkovsky necropolis in the regional center. In the summer of this year, the artist presented a draft project for the museification of this unique archaeological monument. Dmitry Berdnikov thanked Dashi Namdakov for his interest in the idea of creating an archaeological complex and assured him that he would support the project. The first step will be to prepare an application for inclusion in the federal program to develop the necropolis museum project.
“The creation of such large-scale projects would change the urban environment, fill it with new meanings, and make the city more interesting and comfortable for residents,” said the head of Irkutsk.
The mayor also congratulated Dashi Namdakov on being awarded the State Prize of Mongolia, which the country’s president presented to the artist the other day. Dmitry Berdnikov expressed hope that the world-famous sculptor would present his works in Irkutsk.
“You do not have to be born in Irkutsk to connect your creativity with it, to become necessary and dear to the city and its residents. Your work must definitely be presented in the city. Irkutsk residents, especially young people, should be introduced to high art. I sincerely hope that our acquaintance will grow into fruitful cooperation,” Dmitry Berdnikov emphasized.