By 2024, many historic buildings in central Moscow were being demolished to make space for new residential developments. This process affected not only the architecture of the city, but also the independent cultural environment around these spaces.
One of these places was an abandoned mansion on Podkolokolny Pereulok, located near art studios and local creative communities. The awareness of its upcoming demolition became the starting point for ArtDvizh.
At the time of access, the building was in a neglected condition. Dust covered the floors, and the walls showed years of decay. We saw beauty in this ruin. It was the perfect raw canvas for our art, waiting to be brought back to life.
The space was cleared and minimally prepared. We did not want to hide the history of the old mansion. Instead, we gently cleaned the rooms, fixed unsafe areas, and set up basic lighting. The goal was to keep its raw, forgotten spirit alive.
The first artists were invited to fill the empty rooms with meaning. Paintings, sculptures, and lights transformed the dark corners. The silent house suddenly became a living, breathing space where old memories and new art came together.
The project was created by three collaborators —
an artist, a photographer, and a florist.
Together, we prepared the space, organized
exhibitions, and worked with artists, transforming
the abandoned building into a temporary
exhibition venue.
Click on one of the colored blocks on the calendar to see the event details.
Shortly after the exhibitions ended, the building was demolished.
For a brief moment, it became a temporary space for independent art.
The project showed how abandoned buildings can be used as cultural platforms before they disappear.
