Young artists from 100 countries showcase works at IFY 2026 in Russia

An international art exhibition, IFY 2026, is currently underway in Ekaterinburg, Russia. The event, which runs until September 17, 2026, showcases works from 100 countries and features the creations of emerging artists aged 18 to 35. Organized by ANO Tavrida Art in collaboration with the Union of Russian Artists and backed by the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives, the exhibition stands out for its rigorous selection process.

Overwhelmed by the overwhelming number of applications, curators have chosen a select few works from across Russia and the world, each reflecting themes of homeland, culture, tradition, history, people, and landscapes.

Diana Kovela, the project head, emphasized the competitive nature of the exhibition, stating that only a small portion of the submitted works would be displayed due to the limited timeframe. She revealed that some of the featured pieces have already attracted offers for purchase, providing young artists with potential commercial and professional opportunities. For many participants, exhibiting at such a high-profile event could serve as a launching pad for their careers.

Marina Rogatovskaya, Executive Director of the Union of Russian Artists, highlighted the careful evaluation of the selected pieces by the union's creative panels. The exhibition also includes three works by renowned artists Alexander Deineka, Andrei Yakovlev, and Alexander Laktionov, which serve as a foundation for the younger generations to build upon their artistic expressions.

The chief architect, Alexey Komov, described the collection as a diverse mosaic, united by artists' interpretations of homeland and tradition. The exhibition, spanning four days during the Festival, celebrates the unique artistic voices of young creators from around the globe.