Visitors to the recent thematic exhibitions dedicated to the legacy of M.Yu. Lermontov have been treated to a unique glimpse of the celebrated poet and artist. The exhibitions, entitled "The Artistic Heritage of M.Yu. Lermontov," highlight the duality of Lermontov as both a powerful literary voice and a talented painter. Presenting copies of Lermontov's paintings—crafted by Petersburg artist B.A. Semenov—these exhibitions reveal the poet's lesser-known skill set.
Among the showcased works, the paintings draw deeply from Lermontov's impressions of the Caucasus, which played a significant role throughout his life and works. It is noted by critics and historians alike, "His paintings reveal the poet as a painter within the framework of his impressions from the Caucasus." This reveals how intertwined his poetic and visual artistry truly were.
Though only 14 paintings by Lermontov survive, the influence of his skill can be felt throughout the exhibitions. Semenov’s reproductions allow many visitors to experience Lermontov’s artistic expressions for the first time. Exhibits detail how his talent as a painter fully manifested itself during and after his first exile back in 1837, where he honed his craft and the perspectives he would later build on.
For many attendees, the exhibitions opened new avenues of appreciation: "Many visitors discover M.Yu. Lermontov as an artist for the first time," another widely shared sentiment from attendees. Through Lermontov’s paintings, onlookers can glimpse not only the beauty he captured but also the underlying emotions and historical contexts from which they sprang.
During the exhibitions, visitors can also explore documentary evidence and illustrations of Lermontov’s life on display. Items include illustrations by Lermontov himself and other artists like T. Gorshelt and G.G. Gagarin. These documents tell stories of Lermontov's life, including his time spent away from the battlefield during his military service and various details of what shaped his character and art. One exhibit helps viewers understand Lermontov's childhood and its impact on his artistic sensibility.
Highlighting key events, the exhibitions narrate how Lermontov was punished for his poetry through his exiles—first for his poem "Death of the Poet" and later for his duel with E. de Barant, which saw him stationed back to the Gulf of Taman after the years spent wandering the Caucasus. Materials reflect on how Lermontov was frequently left untouched by the fighting during his first exile, allowing him to explore the landscapes and culture of the region. His travel allowed him “to explore the entire line from Kizlyar to Taman,” showcasing the life and surroundings he captured through art.
The exhibitions also dedicate sections to Lermontov’s literary works, including the fascinating backstory of his novellas like “Taman” and the novel “A Hero of Our Time.” Visitors learn not just about Lermontov the poet, but also about the historical backdrop facing Russia at the time, enriching their viewpoints of his artistic expressions.
With each fragment of art and memorabilia, the exhibitions reconnect visitors with the romantic vision of Lermontov and depict the moments which shaped his life and artistic endeavors. The effort to present his multifaceted nature celebrates the full breadth of his talent, leaving attendees invigorated and educated about Lermontov beyond just his writings.
This rich exploration of Lermontov's life and legacy reaffirms his place at the center of Russian culture and offers new perspectives on how one of the nation’s most revered poets saw the world around him. The exhibitions serve not only as artistic showcases but also as bridges to Lermontov’s life story, enriching our knowledge and appreciation of him as both poet and painter.