Cogs and Screws: Exploring Soviet Idealism

On View: November, 18, 2021 - February 23, 2022  
Location: Utah Cultural Celebration Center, Celebration Gallery
​Free Admission

Described as Socialist Realism, Russian art during the Soviet era was strong, overtly ideological, idealistic, and vulnerable at the same time.  Referring to art as the "Cogs and Screws" of revolution, Vladimir Lenin set the stage for art to reflect Soviet society while also being aspirational.  It was “optimistic in spirit, realist in style, and supportive of the Soviet cause.”  War and conflict were an integral part of the Soviet experience; the Great Patriotic war (World War II) and the Cold War were times of great sacrifice for the ideals of the Soviet Union. Art led the way, shaping the narrative stories and memories of Soviet individuals and communities--venerating the working class, the soldiers and sailors, and farmers as the true Soviet heroes.

Exhibition Gallery

​Cogs and Screws: Exploring Soviet Idealism at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center is funded in part by: