A large-scale canvas with a portrait of an outstanding scientist, researcher, First Vice-President of the Russian Geographical Society Artur Chilingarov decorated one of the multi-storey buildings in the city of Belorechensk in the Krasnodar Territory. The art was created as part of the project of the Russian Geographical Society "Geograffiti".
Hero of the Soviet Union and Hero of Russia Artur Chilingarov made an invaluable contribution to the study and development of the North and the World Ocean. Professor, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, President of the State Polar Academy and the Association of Polar Explorers of Russia, member of the expert council of the Crystal Compass National Award, a devoted researcher, he is an example of true love for his work, loyalty to the team, courage, dedication, and constant striving for new discoveries. He would have turned 85 on September 25, 2024.
The portrait of Artur Chilingarov on the wall of the house No. 53 on Gogol Street was created by the artist Pavel Postnikov. The deep-sea exploration apparatus “Mir” and the scientific expedition vessel “Mikhail Somov”, as well as the harsh but beautiful expanses of the Arctic, to the development of which the outstanding geographer devoted his life, became part of the painting.
The Melnichenko Foundation and the administration of the city of Belorechensk provided support in the implementation of the initiative. The grand unveiling of the art was timed to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the city branch of the Russian Geographical Society.
“The unveiling of the mural in Belorechensk is not just an art project. It is a symbol of respect for the heroes of our country, their work, and achievements. It is important to remember people like Artur Nikolaevich Chilingarov and pass on their legacy to future generations," said Ivan Chaika, Chairman of the Krasnodar Regional Branch of the RGS.
The unveiling ceremony was also attended by the head of Belorechensk, Aleksandr Abramov, and the creative director of the Melnichenko Foundation, Vladimir Chesnokov.
“Geograffiti” is an all-Russian project of the Russian Geographical Society. Since 2016, with the participation of the RGS, bright thematic drawings have been created in different regions of our country. Art objects have already appeared in Moscow, Smolensk, Chita, Ulan-Ude, Vladikavkaz, Ufa, and other cities. Among the images are portraits of travelers and researchers, as well as graffiti created based on the photo contest "The Most Beautiful Country" and dedicated to rare animals of Russia.