Chongqing - The "Light and Color: Yuri Kalyuta" exhibition opened on November 23 at the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute Art Museum in Southwest China's Chongqing.

Featuring 100 pieces—81 oil paintings and 19 pastels—the exhibition showcases the breadth of Kalyuta's career, blending retrospective works with contemporary creations. This carefully curated collection offers a unique lens into the acclaimed Russian artist's deep connection with China.

Yuri Kalyuta introduces his work to visitors. (Photo/Deng Yan)

"Russian art has a profound tradition of realism and humanistic qualities, renowned globally and influential to generations of Chinese artists. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sino-Russian diplomatic relations, this solo exhibition by Yuri Kalyuta stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and achievements in artistic exchange between our nations," said Jia Andong, a member of the Standing Committee of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. 

Yuri Kalyuta, a distinguished oil painter and professor at the Repin Academy of Fine Arts, is also an honorary artist and corresponding Russian Academy of Arts member. His portraits, celebrated for their depth and humanity, blend technical skill and emotional resonance. His works reflect a vibrant passion for life, underpinned by a deep appreciation of the Russian artistic tradition's humanistic essence.

The visitor poses with Yuri Kalyuta's work. (Photo/Deng Yan)

Over the years, Kalyuta has developed a profound connection with China. Frequent visits for lectures, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges have solidified his role as a dedicated promoter of Sino-Russian artistic collaboration. He has actively explored ways to integrate elements of Chinese traditional art—such as its "qi yun" (spiritual resonance), "black-and-white" aesthetics, and expressive brushwork—into Russian painting traditions. This fusion of influences enriches his work, sparking conversations about innovation and cross-cultural inspiration. 

His exhibition not only celebrates these achievements but also underscores the transformative potential of artistic exchange.