Russia Cancels Art Exhibit Amid Extremist Opposition

FRANCE24

The Russian authorities have effectively cancelled a modern art exhibit in Saint Petersburg which Russia's Orthodox conservatives have denounced as anti-religious, its curator said Tuesday. The exhibit "Icons", which includes religious icons and sculptures, was set to open in Russia's northwestern city in November, but its organisers came under pressure from the authorities, curator Marat Gelman wrote on his blog. The "Icons" exhibit includes works by Russian contemporary artists which echo religious works of art, for example, a version of "The Last Supper" where Jesus Christ and the apostles sit with their backs to the viewer. [link]