2004 programs and events

Ambassador Krol Announces Vitebsk Art Center Donation

U.S. Ambassador George Krol on April 13 announced the U.S. donation of computer equipment and internet connectivity for the Vitebsk Center of Modern Art. Guests at the presentation ceremony included Center Director Valentina Kirilova; Head of the City Department of Culture, Viktor Kibisov; and representatives of the Vitebsk artists' community. The $1,800 donation, coordinated by the U.S. Embassy's Public Affairs Section, includes a computer with monitor, color printer, modem, phone line installation, and one year of phone charges for dial-up connection with the IATP (Internet Access and Training Program) Center in Vitebsk.

Ambassador Krol delivered his remarks in Belarusian, expressing appreciation to Alexander Solodkov and Pavel Skrebniov of IATP for their help in bringing Internet connectivity to the art center. He also underscored his hope that "this small gift will connect the people of this Art Center more closely with people in the United States and around the world, even as your timeless creations connect those lucky enough to admire them with what is eternally human inside us all."

Founded in 1994, the Vitebsk Center of Modern Art is located in an historic building associated with Marc Chagall, Kasimir Malevich, and other famous artists who at one time worked and lived in the building. The Center sponsors art shows and publishes materials on the art and artistic traditions of Vitebsk. Its programs and activities are intended to help acquaint foreign audiences with the work of modern artists and other cultural leaders in Vitebsk.