Nicola-Lenivets. Art in the Open Air

Bobur by Nicolay Polissky

We used to enjoy art in museum and galleries. What about art in the open air? I explored it for myself visiting art-park Nicola-Lenivets in Kaluga region. It is a picturesque place near the Ugra River. Here you can delight Russian nature and see modern art, architectural objects, created by the artist Nicolay Polissky and participants of the festival "Archstoyanie".

There are more than 30 installations situated in different parts of the park. So different things inspired their creators: nature, society, history (for example, the USSR) and others. Nicolay Polissky and people living in neighbor village created the first object in 2000. From that moment, more than 100 installations were made here. Part of them became important for Russian modern art in whole.

For example, the wooden "Lighthouse" near the Ugra River and "Universal mind" by Nicolay Polissky. The first is eighteen-meter construction that was built without any nails.

Lighthouse by Nicolay Polissky

The second is the large wooden brain on podium, the biggest installation that was made by the artist.

Universal Mind by Nicolay Polissky

Every object has its unique concept and history. Most of them you can just see, but "Fast track" you can also use to move quickly. It is possible because of springing surface of the installation.

The place attracts artists and architects. They live and create in art residence that is organized by Nicolay Polissky.

You can visit Nicola-Lenivets in any season and in any time. At night, objects are highlighted. But sometimes there is only darkness.

If you are afraid to miss some installations just take the map at the reception. It is allowed to move by car on park roads. You can also lease a small house if you want to spend here more than one day.