The Russian Nesting Doll Meets Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS - M.A. Rosko takes us to this exhibit in South Minneapolis — the first of its kind at a U.S. museum. Matryoshka: The Russian Nesting Doll, features about 85 sets of dolls on loan from a private collector in San Francisco.

These brightly painted wooden objects have become a symbol of Russia and Russian folk art; their bell-shaped silhouettes are familiar to the young and old. Whether depicting ancient legends, religious themes, or political caricatures, Matryoshkas can tell us more than meets the eye—as one doll opens to reveal the next one inside—about the history of Russia. The exhibition will remain on display in TMORA’s Fireside Gallery through March 29, 2010.

Painted Matryoshka dolls are fascinating storytellers. Elaborately decorated with scenes from Russian folklore, history, and politics, they provide a visually rich source of learning for adults and children. The dolls on display were produced over several decades and will include pre-WWII dolls as well as dolls from various regional centers of Matryoshka production during the Soviet and post-Soviet periods. The display will also feature unique Matryoshka dolls decorated by the recognized masters of Matryoshka painting.

The dolls are on loan from a private San Francisco-based collection of wooden dolls, one of the largest collections of its kind in the United States.

FOR MORE INFO: www.tmora.org or call 612-821-9045

About The Museum of Russian Art
The Museum of Russian Art, a non-profit, educational institution, is the only museum in the United States dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Russian art and artifacts. TMORA is located in an award-winning exhibition facility at 5500 Stevens Ave. S. (intersection of I-35W and Diamond Lake Road) in Minneapolis. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday-Wednesday, Friday), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Thursday), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Saturday); 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday). Admission is $5 for adults. To learn more about the museum, upcoming exhibitions and events, to view selections from The Izba (the museum store), or to schedule an event at the museum.

Also on display ~ Photographer to the Tsar: Revealing the Silk Road in the Lower Gallery and Russkiy Salon on the Main and Mezzanine levels.