NINA FEDOROVA’S CREATIVE WORKSHOP IN THE ARTISTIC IMAGE OF KIEV (JUGS)

Abstract

The article discusses the activities of the «Experimental Workshop of Artistic Ceramics» located in the “Sophia of Kyiv” reserve, which was also known as the «Sophia Pottery” or “Nina Fedorova’s Laboratory». This workshop played a significant role in shaping contemporary trends in artistic ceramics. The article explores the creative explorations of artists who created ceramic objects that reflected the artistic image of Kyiv as a whole, including traditional forms such as vases and jugs. Their works are preserved in the V. H. Zabolotny State Scientific Library of Architecture and Construction and the Central State Archive-Museum of Literature and Art of Ukraine. Nina Ivanivna Fedorova introduced new ceramic technologies in Ukraine and led the «Experimental Workshop of Artistic Ceramics», which was established to implement new decorative sculpting solutions during the postwar reconstruction of Kyiv. The article analyzes the scientific works of contemporary Ukrainian scholars studying and analyzing the main trends in the development of artistic ceramics as part of Ukrainian culture. The main principles of the workshop under the leadership of N. Fedorova are identified, including a focus on the traditions of Ukrainian folk ceramics, innovative approaches in their application, and creative collaboration between folk craftsmen, professional artists, technologists, and architects. The main goal of Nina Fedorova’s creative workshop was to rebuild the war-ravaged country, particularly the city of Kyiv, and decorate buildings with modern ceramics. The article showcases works created in the workshop for the decoration of Kyiv metro stations, the interiors of the House of Cinema, the «Dnipro» restaurant, and others. It emphasizes that the decorative vases created in the experimental workshop draw inspiration from traditional classic jugs. The paintings are characterized by exceptional plasticity, expressive monumentality, and organic integration with the form. The artists of the workshop became true innovators in the use of decorative techniques to create the artistic image of Kyiv. In conclusion, it is highlighted that the paintings are distinguished by exceptional plasticity, expressive monumentality, and organic integration with the form. The artists of the workshop were true innovators in the use of decorative techniques in creating the artistic image in maiolica.