An author’s photo project by Yuri Molodkovets
1–04 November 2025
Vernissage: 01 October at 19:00
The Russian House in Brussels invites you to a unique photo exhibition by Yuri Molodkovets “Hermitage. Solitude”.
For the first time in the history of photography, the project “Hermitage. Solitude” presents a night shooting of the museum, devoid not only of visitors but even of light. The protagonists of the project are not so much the Hermitage exhibits themselves as the special atmosphere surrounding them, which makes them even more enigmatic. After all, they are located in historical interiors and have witnessed many, sometimes dramatic, moments of Russian history.
Starting from the idea that the Hermitage is a living museum and that nothing passes without a trace, Yuri Molodkovets sought to capture the unique atmosphere of the museum at night. Filming lasted for nine months, resulting in a cycle of photographs that tell the story of the private, hidden life of objects — a special fragment of time and space where the main characters are moonlight, reflections in dim glass, and the movement of shadows. They appear endowed with a soul, while the camera that captured them becomes a medium capable of connecting with an unreal world.
At the vernissage on October 1, the author will personally present the project and share the story of its creation.
On October 2, Yuri Molodkovets and Ksenia Lugovskaya will hold a Masterclass “Art Photography: How to See the Museum in a New Way”
The program includes an introduction to contemporary approaches in artistic photography and video, discussion of techniques for working with space and light, as well as practical recommendations from renowned professionals. The master class is open both to beginners interested in visual art and to specialists wishing to expand their knowledge and skills.
