Nina Moleva, a renowned Russian art critic and writer, passed away at the age of 98. The announcement came from the press service of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, confirming the historian of art’s departure on February 11. Moleva’s long career and prolific output left a lasting imprint on the study and appreciation of Russian painting, and her loss is being noted across artistic and cultural circles in Russia and beyond. (Source: Ministry of Culture)
Born in Moscow on December 5, 1925, Moleva dedicated her life to the analysis and dissemination of Russian visual arts. Over decades, she authored more than 120 books examining the works of Russian painters, engaging readers with thoughtful interpretations and rigorous scholarship. Her studies covered a broad spectrum of artists, including Ivan Nikitin, Dmitry Levitsky, Pavel Chistyakov, and Konstantin Korovin, among others. Through these writings, Moleva helped shape contemporary understanding of classic and modern Russian art, bridging historical context with present-day reception. (Source: Ministry of Culture)
In a remarkable turn of fate, Moleva became the custodian of a substantial collection of paintings following the death of her spouse, avant-garde artist Eliya Belutina. Upon his passing, the collection—comprising approximately 200 works valued in the billions of dollars—was entrusted to Moleva, who managed the legacy with care and scholarly attention. The transfer of stewardship highlighted Moleva’s deep commitment to preserving cultural treasures and making them accessible for future generations of art lovers, scholars, and the public alike. (Source: Ministry of Culture)
In a subsequent decision documented in her will, Moleva indicated a wish regarding the disposition of the collection that would have wide-reaching implications for the national cultural landscape. She conveyed her intention to donate the entire group of works to the President of the Russian Federation, who serves as the legal representative of the country. The arrangement, formalized in April 2013, positioned the President as the guardian of this substantial artistic inheritance, emphasizing the state’s role in preserving cultural patrimony for the nation and its citizens. This extraordinary act underscored Moleva’s belief in the public value of art and the importance of national stewardship of great works. (Source: Ministry of Culture)
Alongside Moleva’s passing, the cultural community remembers another figure who recently departed: Yuri Larin, a former Honored Artist of the Russian Federation. His death marks another moment of reflection within the arts world as it continues to mourn and celebrate the contributions of influential creators across generations. (Source: Ministry of Culture)