In the 19th century, a young girl from Poltava conquered not only France, but also the entire art world of Europe. Her name was Maria Bashkyrtseva. She lived only 25 years, but left a mark that has not disappeared to this day: almost 200 works of art, a deeply emotional diary and memory in the hearts of admirers of her talent.
Maria was born on November 23, 1858 in the village of Gavrontsy near Dikanka. Her wealthy family allowed her to receive an education in Europe: at the age of 12, the girl already knew five languages and read philosophers in the original. Later, she studied painting at the famous Académie Julian in Paris, and her paintings repeatedly won awards at prestigious exhibitions.
In addition to art, Bashkyrtseva was fond of music and literature. Her diary, published after her death, became a real discovery for Europeans - the sincere, deep and strong emotions of the young woman made a great impression on the reading public. She lived with the dream of becoming famous - and this dream came true.
Maria died of tuberculosis at the age of 25. Despite her short life, she left a powerful artistic legacy. Some of her works were lost during World War II, but some paintings are kept in museums in Ukraine, France, the Netherlands, and the United States.
In Dykanka in Poltava region, she is remembered and honored. In the former zemstvo school of 1904, the only art gallery in Ukraine named after Maria Bashkyrtseva now operates. It has collected over a thousand exhibits: paintings, sculptures, embroideries, ceramics. Among the authors are famous artists of Poltava region. A separate hall is dedicated to Bashkyrtseva herself - with reproductions of her works and interesting stories about her life.
The gallery also has a hall dedicated to Nikolai Gogol, a room-installation "Solokha's hut" with 19th-century household items, and a collection of original dolls that combines humor and deep meaning.
