The vantage points onto the atrium, and its size, provide a unique opportunity for the development of large-scale installations in Moscow, as well as the establishment of a commission series that is the first of its kind in the country. The publications series New Work is also a first in Russia, placing emphasis on the process of developing a work, as well as the social, cultural, and political interests that inspire an artist’s production.
Erik Bulatov was invited to undertake the first Atrium Commission for the opening of the Museum, using his signature graphic style to create the largest singlestretcher paintings he has ever made. This book tells the story of their inspiration and fruition through photographs and text, as well as providing insight into Bulatov’s more than sixty-year career, with an interview by curator Hans Ulrich Obrist and texts written by the artist from 1978 to 2006, some of which are translated into English for the first time.
In his interview with Obrist, Bulatov cites the artist and philosopher Vladimir Favorsky (1886–1964) as one of his biggest influences. In his own writing, Bulatov elucidates why: “he taught me to think, to understand my craft. In essence he formed my world view.” Best known for h