Quirky Chekhov exhibition celebrates playwright’s 153rd birthday

An unusual exhibition in honour of the playwright Anton Chekhov’s 153rd birthday will open in his hometown today. The not-for-profit Fluxus Gallery Belka & Strelka in Taganrog will showcase works by artists from all over Russia, including 20 pieces by local students, which explore Chekhov’s work and legacy in unexpected ways. In addition to traditional oil paintings, quirkier artworks include the retelling of The Steppe, one of the playwright’s iconic short stories, in the form of a woven rug. During the opening, an astroturf mat will be “shaved” to create a portrait of Chekhov. The free exhibition runs until 8 February.