Artist Mihai Șerbu documents Moldova's vernacular architecture in "Paintings from the Heart of Orheiul Vechi"
The National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History in Chișinău is currently hosting a solo exhibition by artist Mihai Șerbu. Titled "Paintings from the Heart of Orheiul Vechi," the collection features recent works created en plein air.
The exhibition serves as a visual archive of one of Moldova's most significant cultural landscapes. Visitors can explore detailed depictions of traditional shadoof wells, limestone troughs, and intricately carved wooden gates.
A lifetime of inspiration
Originally from the region, Șerbu focuses on the authentic atmosphere inherited from past generations. He aims to preserve through art the specific state of conservation of these historic sites.
"I am drawn to nature, the location, and the way these objects have been preserved," the artist explained. Most works were painted directly on-site to capture the natural light of the Orhei region.
Artistic and documentary value
Art critic Ala Leancă emphasizes the documentary importance of the collection. She notes that the paintings capture architectural elements, such as specific gate posts and bridges, which are rapidly disappearing from the rural landscape.
Ion Jabinschi, a former student of the artist and fellow painter, describes Șerbu’s style as a blend of figurative realism and philosophical depth, characterized by a subtle and sophisticated color palette.
A cultural landmark on canvas
Museum Director Petru Vicol invited the artist to Chișinău after discovering his work in Cimișlia. He believes the exhibition perfectly complements the museum's mission to showcase Moldovan ethnography and nature.
"These works discover the beauty of the nation's premier cultural and natural landmark," Vicol stated. The exhibition remains open to the public at the National Museum of Ethnography until the end of March.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
