TARİHİ BAĞLAMDA RUS TEKSTİLLERİ VE SANATÇI ANDREY MADEKİN

The oldest examples of artistic weavings were found in Peru at the beginning of the 2500 BC. It is known that there were weavers who knew the technique well between the 10th-13th centuries and that decorative silk weavings similar to tapestry weavings were made in China. This weaving technique came to Russia after Europe, and the first application center, St. Petersburg tapestry factory established by the Empire in the early 18th century. In the factory, tapestries with classical subjects were woven in the late 18th century, while weaving reflecting the Imperial traditions was made in the early 19th century. When we look at the history of Russian textile except for tapestry weavings, it is seen that it stands out with its shawl weavings called “Tapestry Shawls” and textile printing reflecting the identity of the country. In addition, there are suzani and other embroidery, carpet and ikat applications. Today, when we look at the works of artists who have created their own style, we encounter the free expressions of the artists with their own interpretations in technique and practice as well as the tapestries with strong pictorial expressions applied with classical technique in Russia. Considering the perception of rapid production and consumption in our age, a special respect is respected to the artists who weave with the classical tapestry technique, which takes a lot of time and is laborious to weave. Many important names, which can be given as examples to these artists in Russia, find a place in national and international art events with their works. One of these artists, Andrey (Andrew) Madekin, has taken his place among international artists with his versatile approaches, with his classical works bearing the traces of tradition or his modern and original works that also include Russian art elements. Madekin made a name for himself with tapestry weavings and represented himself and Russia with his works in many museums, private collections, various exhibitions and events. The artist, who is a painter, writer and designer, also has an educator side. Undoubtedly, being productive in different disciplines has also affected his success in tapestry weaving, making him known with his artist identity in many countries. Being a versatile artist and using the classical tapestry technique as a powerful expression tool reflecting his style played an important role in the selection of artist as the subject of this article.