Zurab Tsereteli, the Georgian-Russian artist famed for his grandiose sculptures, passed away at the age of 91. His works, including notable monuments in Moscow and across the globe, generated mixed responses, while he maintained close ties with political figures.
Iconic Sculptor Zurab Tsereteli Passes Away at 91 Years Old
Iconic Sculptor Zurab Tsereteli Passes Away at 91 Years Old
The celebrated Georgian-Russian artist, renowned for his monumental sculptures, has died, leaving a legacy of both admiration and controversy.
Georgian-Russian artist Zurab Tsereteli, celebrated for his monumental sculptures that often sparked debate, has passed away at the age of 91. The Tbilisi native was particularly known for his extraordinary works in Moscow, including the towering 98-meter (321-foot) monument dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great, a ruler who famously had an aversion to the city he now overlooks.
Tsereteli rose to prominence during the Soviet period and played a pivotal role in shaping the visuals of Moscow's 1980 Olympic Games. His massive sculptures can be found in cities around the world, with notable creations like a tribute to Christopher Columbus in Seville, Spain, and the Chronicle of Georgia monument back in Tbilisi. His association with Russia's political elite, exemplified by his admiration for President Vladimir Putin, fueled both supportive and critical views of his work; Tsereteli once claimed that Putin's "healthy soul" inspired his bronze portrayal of the leader.
Following news of Tsereteli’s passing, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commemorated him as "an artist of world renown" and emphasized his role in fostering creativity and peace. While some of his pieces, like the controversial Peter the Great monument, have drawn mixed reactions from the public, Tsereteli's influence on contemporary art and architecture remains significant. He also served as the president of the Russian Academy of Arts, acknowledging his status within the artistic community.
Among his notable projects is the ten-storey “Tear of Grief” monument, which honors the victims of the September 11 attacks in New Jersey, and “Good Defeats Evil,” located at the UN Headquarters in New York, symbolizing the triumph over nuclear threats. In addition to his monumental architecture, Tsereteli was an accomplished painter, particularly known for his floral compositions, and contributed to the reconstruction of Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.
Tsereteli’s legacy, characterized by his ambitious endeavors and complex relationships with the political landscape, will continue to evoke discussions on the relation between art, politics, and public sentiment.
