The N. Latfullin Museum of Contemporary Art of the Republic of Bashkortostan is delighted to announce "Fragments of Eternity," an exclusive exhibition by the London-based sculptor, Shamil Sultanov. Embark on a journey through the bold reimaginings of classical forms and contemporary critiques in a body of work that deconstructs the epitome of masculine perfection — the Italian Renaissance sculpture of David.

Sultanov’s sculptures, acclaimed for their compelling integrity and profound symbolism, confront the rampant commodification in our society. His works, characterised by the juxtaposition of the golden dolphin and the advertising-draped dog against the fractured visage of David, transcend aesthetic boundaries and penetrate deep into the modern consumerist psyche. The golden skull that emerges from the ruins of the classical bust serves as a poignant memento mori within the disintegration of the classical ideal.

This exhibition invites visitors to navigate through contrasts of medium — the enduring artistry of limestone stands against the ephemeral allure of plastic and the deceptive radiance of gold-painted elements. Sultanov’s critique extends beyond mere artistry, questioning the value we place on historical and cultural treasures in a world captivated by the disposable and the new.

In a striking companion piece, the ensnarement of a Greek goddess figure by plastic hands represents the enduring societal constraints and the persistent dominance of the patriarchy. These artificial restraints cast a spotlight on the superficial barriers to women’s freedom.

"Fragments of Eternity" is more than an exhibition; it is a discourse between antiquity and the contemporary, a critical examination of the evolving constructs of gender roles, and a challenge to the archetypes that bind us. Shamil Sultanov’s tableaus present a unique view of identity within the capitalist framework, engaging viewers in the timeless struggle between autonomy and societal control.

We cordially invite you to immerse yourself in the powerful narrative and provocative artistry of Shamil Sultanov, a sculptor who continues to push the boundaries of contemporary sculpture.

**Opening Reception: [Insert Date]**

**Exhibition Dates: [Insert Range]**

**Venue: N. Latfullin Museum of Contemporary Art of the Republic of Bashkortostan**

Join us for an exploration of the intersection of ancient philosophy and modern discourse, and reflect on the immutable truths that reside beneath the embellished veneer of our society. Celebrate the ingenuity of Shamil Sultanov, a visionary artist who compels us to see beyond the apparent.

In Shamil Sultanov’s sculptural critique, the integrity of the Italian Renaissance sculpture of David, once the epitome of masculine perfection, is boldly compromised. Sultanov has contemporized the David bust, integrating a golden dolphin and a dog draped in advertisements into the fractured visage. These additions move beyond mere aesthetics and delve into the critique of commodification. The golden skull emerging from the ravaged bust stands as a stark symbol of mortality and the undermining of enduring values by the insatiable appetite of consumerism.

The adulteration of the David bust—a symbol of classical masculine ideals—with modern commercial symbols is a profound statement on the erosion of traditional values. The golden skull within, a poignant reminder of what is enduring amidst the fleeting, radiates from within the disintegrated limestone, proposing that beneath society’s polished façades lies the unalterable reality of our shared humanity, untouched by the veneer of capitalism.

This stark contrast of mediums—the lasting artistry of limestone against the ephemeral allure of plastic and the artificial glimmer of gold-painted objects—voices a powerful commentary on the dualities of existence. Sultanov’s approach lays bare how historical and cultural treasures are devalued in a contemporary world captivated by novelty and disposability.

Complementing this is the adjacent figure of a Greek goddess, bound by plastic hands symbolizing patriarchal restraints. The synthetic hands that ensnare her signify not just physical barriers but also the systemic confines imposed on women’s freedom, highlighting the superficial nature of these societal shackles.

Sultanov’s work is a tableau of critique, a dissection of capitalism’s impact on identity, both personal and collective. Through the David bust and the constrained goddess, he weaves a dialogue between ancient philosophy and modern narrative, spotlighting the persistent battle between individual freedom and societal limits. His sculptures are a poignant meditation on the evolving constructs of masculinity and femininity, challenging the archetypes that both delineate and restrict us.