An exhibition of designer ceramics, "Sociology of the Thing," opened at Derzhavin University. The exhibition was timed to coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the university's Museum and Exhibition Complex.
The author of the works, Olga Kovrikova, PhD in Economics, associate professor at Derzhavin University, member of the Russian Society of Political Scientists, and specialist in public opinion research, offers her perspective on the world through the prism of pottery.
The exhibition's title, "Sociology of the Thing," reflects the author's philosophical reflections on the place of things in modern culture and society, the role of objects in human life, and their influence on social processes.
The exhibition features over 50 works: bowls, vases, and plates. All are executed in a variety of techniques: some were created on a potter's wheel, others were hand-molded. Each work reveals the connection between people and things, tradition and modernity, function and aesthetics.
"My life is a balance." "On the one hand, it's a rigorous teaching career—I've been in the profession since 1989. And on the other, ceramics is my absolute creative outlet," says Olga Kovrikova. "It all stems from a woman's need for beauty and eternal wonder, because true masterpieces can be born from ordinary clay. I don't set strict boundaries for myself; I want to continue to be inspired, to look at different types of ceramics, observe glazes, and to search for my own forms. It's not just a hobby; it's a passionate love."
Olga Ivanovna draws inspiration from travel, exploring museums around the world, and discovering the works of folk artists, allowing her to combine cultural traditions in a unique, signature style.
The exhibition will be open until the end of April at the Derzhavin History Museum, on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
