There is a definite Russian flavour in the air this autumn: the Victoria & Albert museum in London’s major exhibition of “Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballets Russes” has impressed with the multi-media cross-fertilisation (lots of hyphens there) of talented individuals working on a single project.
While Diaghilev’s team were looking to the future, a contemporary Russian is tapping into the folkloric nostalgia of Russia for decorative interiors. Evgenia Miro, although actually from the Ukraine, studied in Russia and now designs collections for luxury companies including Hermès.
See the scarf print below.
It’s all very pre-revolutionary but she captures the vibrant colour and symbolism of our expectations of Russia in this design. It’s clear to see that her influences include theatre and the cultural history of this enormous country with its rich imperial and rural past. It is decorative and comforting, perhaps appropriate in this uncertain environment and just as valid for many as forward-looking design. In today’s world there is plenty of room for both.
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