In the nineteenth century, a young girl from Poltava region conquered not only France, but also the whole artistic world of Europe. Her name is Maria Bashkirtseva. She lived only 25 years, but left the trace that he has not disappeared to this day: almost 200 artwork, a deeply emotional diary and memory in the hearts of fans of her talent.
Maria was born on November 23, 1858 in the village of Gavrontsi near Dikanka. The wealthy family allowed her to receive education in Europe: at 12 years, the girl already speaks five languages and read philosophers in the original. Subsequently, she studied painting at the famous Paris Academy of Julian, and her paintings repeatedly won awards at prestigious exhibitions.
In addition to art, Bashkirtseva was fond of music and literature. Her diary, published after death, became a real discovery for Europeans - sincere, deep and strong emotions of the young woman made a great impression on the readership. She lived with the dream to become famous - and this dream came true.
Maria died of tuberculosis at the age of 25. Despite its short life, it left a powerful artistic heritage. Some of her works were lost during World War II, but some paintings are stored in museums in Ukraine, France, the Netherlands and the United States.
In Dikanka in Poltava region she is remembered and revered. The former Zemsky school of 1904 is currently the only art gallery named after Maria Bashkirtseva. More than a thousand exhibits are collected here: paintings, sculptures, embroidery, ceramics. Among the authors are famous artists of Poltava region. A separate hall is dedicated to Bashkirtseva herself - with the reproductions of her works and interesting stories about her life.
Also in the gallery there is a hall dedicated to Nikolai Gogol, the room-installation "Hat Solokha" with household things of the nineteenth century, and also-a collection of original dolls that combines humor and deep content.
