An enduring conviction shared by major cultural institutions is that Russian culture cannot be erased or canceled no matter the pressures of the moment. This view was stated by Mikhail Piotrovsky, the general director of the Hermitage Museum and the head of the Union of Museums of Russia, as reported by TASS. He underscored that attempts to diminish Russia are not a sign of strength but a bid to push the country aside, a claim he described as part of a broader trend in the cultural world.
Piotrovsky recalled a notable return of Russian cultural artifacts in 2022, when museums worldwide brought back approximately 15 to 20 exhibits that celebrated Russia. He suggested that such movements reflect ongoing global challenges to culture in general, rather than a singular attack on Russian heritage. The message emphasized resilience and a belief that culture transcends borders and politics, even amid international tensions and debates about national memory.
Addressing the perception that museums merely store items for private collection, Piotrovsky warned against denying the public and educational roles of museums. He argued that the notion of museums as mere booties warehouses or as places with limited cultural value is harmful and misguided. In his view, the principle that culture should belong to everyone and the world at large is essential for a healthy cultural ecosystem. The Hermitage leader concluded that culture, when shared globally, gains greater significance and impact for all of humanity, not just a single nation.
The discussion on cultural stewardship extended to the broader international community. Konstantin Chudovsky, who served as the chief conductor of the revived State Kremlin Orchestra, commented on his personal experience working across various countries. He emphasized that professional collaborations do not reflect hostility toward fellow Russians or their culture. Instead, such international work highlights a universal appreciation for the arts and the shared responsibility to preserve and nurture cultural expressions wherever they arise. This perspective aligns with the broader belief that cultural exchange enriches societies and helps build mutual understanding across borders, as noted by observers and participants in the global arts scene.