"In the Studio", exhibition by Petar Popov
The paintings are resting peacefully. In the dark. Every so often, the lamp turns on, and one of them leaves. People remember them. Or in catalogs. Or when they were taken out, wiped clean, and put in the light. These paintings are like that.
What remains of a person 100 years after he was born?
These works are from the studio, as well as many others. You can find them in galleries, museums, and collections. Some were stolen from the Gabrovo Art Museum. Others were sold at fake antique auctions. Some were taken from bankrupt factories after the collapse of the communist system. Others were put in public buildings and halls. Some were put in the upper lobby of the opera in Ruse next to the door of the chief artist (this position no longer exists).
Sometimes, events like this make people remember the past. Then, these events become part of the history of the Ruse School of Painting. Then, only experts remember. You can find brief mentions of it in textbooks and research. It's a part of the diverse and creative human spirit. These are the works that my father left in the studio. Some of them were used for burning, as he had planned. I did not burn them. Here they are. They show the kitchen of his work.
Until ten days ago, Petar Popov was receiving letters. This is from the electricity company. "He is alive...", my mother and I smiled. I had to change my subscription 40 years after his death. It wasn't technically legal, but it was nice. I wish we all receive letters at least until our hundredth birthday, like Petar Popov.
Enjoy watching!
Eslitsa Popova
Paris, April 18, 2025
