2022 Fall Program
October 22, 2022
The Museum of Russian Art, Minneapolis
Ir was a picture-perfect fall day when about 20 Dames gathered at The Museum of Russian Art (TMORA) for special docent-led tours of the three-level museum. We learned so much from our knowledgeable guides and splitting up into small groups ensured an easy listening experience. Plus, the portable seating was well-used and appreciated! It was wonderful to gather again after what felt like a long break. Afterwards, we gathered for lunch at the Book Club cafe, where some of us did, in fact, talk about books!
The building's Mission style is unusual in Minnesota. It was built as the home of the Mayflower Church, now located across the street. The first resident pastor, Rev. Silas Meckel, was fond of the architecture of the Mission Valley in Texas. He asked that the church be built in that style. Construction began in 1935. It has been the home of the Museum of Russian Art since 2004.
Our group gathered waiting for the tours to begin.
Old friends had a chance to catch up on travels and activities beforethe tours started.
Our program coordinator Sandy Hull welcomed us, as did the docents who led our tours.
We divided up into small groups to allow us to see and hear better.
The museum has the largest collection of Matryoshka nesting dolls in North America. We learned that the origin of these Russian dolls was actually based on a Japanese nesting doll design. It was first introduced into Russia's folk revival movement in the late 19th century.
A closer look at a few of the Matryoshka dolls
View from the second-floor atrium. The second floor features paintings and collages in both the social realism and nonconformist styles.
One of the group's favorites was the charming portrait of Katiusha, a youth ambassador to the US during perestroika
The lower level featured an exhibit of current political cartoons about the war in Ukraine from Ukrainian and Russian artists.
Signs supporting Ukraine are featured on the exterior as well as on the museum website.
The Book Club was the perfect spot for lunch for those of us gathered there after our tour.
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