Constantin Brancusi celebrated in Chisinau with exhibition of Moldovan and Romanian fine artists' works

Constantin Brancusi, one of the greatest sculptors of the 20th century, is honored in Chisinau through the international exhibition, Brancusi Celebration – Tradition and Modernity in Romanian Fine Arts. The event marks the 149th anniversary of the birth of the great artist and highlights his influence on contemporary art.

The exhibition brings together 149 visual artists from Romania and Moldova, each displaying a work of sculpture, painting, graphics or photography, as a token of in appreciation for Brancusi's legacy.

"An art exhibition cultivates in man the order, balance and ability to arrange their thoughts. Aesthetic taste is an essential factor in our lives. Such an event promotes and highlights Brancusi's work," painter Galina Vieru told MOLDPRES.

Romanian visual artist Gelu Costea emphasized the importance of Brancusi's legacy.

"Constantin Brancusi is like a root for us today. Once we understand his vision and belief, we can only grow," he stated.

Minister of Culture Sergiu Prodan highlighted the cultural connection between Chisinau and Chisinau and Targu Jiu, the city in Romania that hosts the monumental ensemble created by Constantin Brancusi. Sergiu Prodan spent several months in this city for the production of the film, Heroes at the Jiul Bridge, a project dedicated to historical events that marked Romania.

"This exhibition represents a genuine cultural bridge between the two cities. Great works of art come to be known worldwide, but the inspiration behind them often begins with ordinary people, those who withstood the test of time and passed on authentic traditions and values," said Sergiu Prodan.

Through such events, the personality and work of Brancusi remain alive in the public consciousness, said Narcis Afrasinei, the interim director of the Romanian Cultural Institute (ICR) "Mihai Eminescu" in Chișinău.

"Constantin Brancusi's work is a profoundly Romanian expression, both artistically and spiritually. Although consecrated in the Western space, where he perfected his masterpieces in his Paris studio, Brancusi always remained anchored in his native roots. The themes of his works bear the imprint of the traditions, beliefs, and values that shaped his artistic vision. The exhibition dedicated to the 149th anniversary of Brancusi's birth brings us closer to the work, life and personality of this titan of modern sculpture," said Narcis Afrasinei, the interim director of ICR Chișinău.

The exhibition was organized at the initiative of the Academy of Arts in Chisinau with the support of Gorj County Council, Romania.

"Part of Constantin Brancusi's heart has turned today over the Prut. This exceptional exhibition is a Romanian-Romanian cultural manifestation. We thank the organizers and those who exhibited their works at this event," said Gheorghe Nichifor, Vice President of Gorj County Council, during the event.

The exhibition can be visited at the Constantin Brancusi Exhibition Center until February 26, 2025.

Constantin Brancusi was a Romanian sculptor who brought a new vision to the language of fine arts and contemporary sculpture. The artist was born on February 19, 1876, in Hobița, Peștișani, Gorj County (Romania) – and died on March 16, 1957, in Paris, France. His abstract and stylized sculptures have left a historical mark. Many of them were inspired by folk art, natural forms and ancient civilizations, and Brancusi's personality endures today through his works. His most famous works include: "The Kiss," "Bird in Space," "The Endless Column," "Sleeping Muse," "Măiastra," and "The Gate of the Kiss." The renowned sculptor passed away on March 16, 1957, in Paris and was buried at the "Montparnasse" cemetery.