Press releases

MINSK, 22 November (BelTA) – Two exhibitions, marking the 150^th birthday of famous artist, scene designer and illustrator Leon Bakst, have opened in Paris, BelTA learned from the Belarusian embassy in France.

Leon Bakst, born in Grodno, is famous, first of all, for his scene and costume designs for Sergei Dyagilev’s Russian Seasons ballet performances that were a success in Paris and London in the early 20^th century. With the decision of UNESCO General Conference at its 38^th session, Leon Bakst’s anniversary was included into the UNESCO List of Memorable Dates for 2016-2017.

The exhibition entitled as Bakst: From the Russian Ballet to Haute Couture opened in the Grand Opera Palais Granier on 21 November. It is the first exhibition of the kind in France held since 1924 (the year Leon Bakst died). On display are theatrical costumes, scene sketches, designs and drawings made by Leon Bakst and also collections from the world’s leading fashion houses created after Leon Bakst’s scenic costumes. The exhibition in the Grand Opera will stay open through 5 March 2017.

An exhibition of children’s drawings titled as Theater Art Through the Children’s Eyes, also marking the 150^th birthday of Leon Bakst, opened in the UNESCO headquarters on 22 November. The exhibition has presented works of students of the Grodno Oblast schools of art. Opening the exposition, Belarus’ Ambassador to France, Belarus’ Permanent Representative in the UNESCO Pavel Latushko emphasized the importance of Leon Bakst’s creative work for the world’s theater art and fashion. The exhibition will run through 25 November 2016.