Thea Goguadze is the visionary Founder and CEO of Reach Art Visual (R.A.V.), and GEORGIA TODAY had an opportunity to delve into a conversation with her to explore the intricate dynamics of art, culture, and diplomacy. Discover the motivations driving R.A.V.’s pioneering efforts in promoting forgotten artists like Alexey Balabouev, and how they are reshaping the narrative of Georgian art on the global stage. Join us as we uncover the evolution of R.A.V. and its enduring commitment to celebrating Georgia’s rich cultural heritage through the language of art.
As the Founder and CEO of Reach Art Visual, could you share the personal motivation or inspiration that led you to establish the organization, and how your vision for R.A.V. has evolved over time?
My motivation stems from a deep-seated desire to explore and research Georgia art as both a cultural treasure and a viable subject of business exploration. My vision has evolved over time, initially driven by curiosity to uncover untold narratives within Georgia’s art history from the past, as well as a contemporary story. and now encompassing a commitment to supporting art historians and enthusiasts while fostering a vibrant ecosystem for artists and aficionados alike. Through Reach Art Visual, I aim to highlight the intricate narratives woven within Georgia’s artistic heritage to step into dialogue with worldwide artistic dynamics. Maybe this is an ambitious statement, but this is what it is.
Balancing a role in diplomatic work and a prominent position in the art world is unique. How has your experience in diplomacy influenced your approach to curating art projects and leading R.A.V.?
Profoundly. With a broad algorithm of thinking, I view art as a universal language, capable of transcending cultural barriers and connecting people across the globe. My vision is to utilize art as a translator, effectively conveying the essence of Georgian creativity to audiences worldwide. By promoting art as a universal language, we can seamlessly integrate art in Georgia into the global conversation, fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the international art community. Georgia, with its demonstrated flair for vibrant expression and sophisticated taste, stands poised to make significant contributions to the art world. Through R.A.V., we strive to showcase art in Georgia as a cherished member of the global artistic family, both at home and abroad.
Representing Alexey Balabouev at the Osenat auction is a significant accomplishment. How did this experience influence your perspective on the potential for the global recognition of Georgian artists, and what ambitions do you have for further international collaborations?
Representing Alexey Balabouev there was emblematic of our commitment to unearthing and showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Georgia. This experience has profoundly influenced my perspective on the global recognition of Georgian artists, illuminating the vast potential for their talent to resonate on the international stage. Through projects like Alexey Balabouev’s, we delve into the untold stories of Georgian art, many of which were submerged during the turbulent times of the Soviet Union’s collapse. In 2023, our acquisition of a substantial collection spanning various artists from the Soviet era unveiled unique names that had been overshadowed by historical upheavals. As Georgia emerges as a strong, independent nation, we are poised to reclaim and celebrate these treasures, affirming our pride in our cultural legacy. Looking ahead, our ambitions for further international collaborations extend beyond mere representation; we aim to cultivate enduring partnerships that amplify the voices of Georgian artists, enriching the global artistic landscape with the depth and diversity of our cultural heritage.
Can you share insights into the process of selecting specific artworks by Alexey Balabouev for the Osenat auction? What criteria were considered in choosing these particular pieces?
Selecting the artworks for the auction involved a meticulous collaboration with renowned art historian Konstantine Bolkvadze. Balabouev’s pieces were chosen based on their exceptional artistry and the mastery evident in his work. One key criterion was the precision displayed in the execution of his pieces, reflecting a level of skill and craftsmanship that sets his art apart. For instance, Balabouev’s watercolor works exhibit a level of detail and finesse rarely seen in contemporary art, making them particularly noteworthy. Each selected artwork underwent careful consideration to ensure that it represented the essence of Balabouev’s talent and contributed meaningfully to the narrative we sought to convey at the auction. Through this discerning process, we aimed to showcase the depth and uniqueness of Balabouev’s artistry to a global audience, reinforcing his significance within the broader artistic landscape.
Balabuev’s art is described as unconventional and non-ideological. How did these distinctive qualities influence the reception of his work at the international auction, and what challenges or advantages did they present?
Balabouev’s art brought a unique dynamic to the international auction scene. His departure from traditional Soviet socialist realism and avoidance of political symbols resonated deeply with collectors seeking narratives beyond the confines of ideology. The diverse array of collectors present at such auctions, each with their own preferences, ranging from socialist realism to its antithesis, created a fertile ground for the reception of Balabouev’s work. His pieces, unencumbered by ideological constraints, appealed to those who valued artistry that transcended political boundaries and offered fresh perspectives. While navigating the auction landscape posed its challenges, Balabouev’s unconventional style offered distinct advantages by capturing the attention of collectors with diverse tastes. It’s therefore unsurprising that all three pieces showcased at the auction were received so favorably, underscoring the universal appeal and enduring relevance of Balabouev’s artistic vision on the international stage.
Beyond the financial success at the auction, how does R.A.V. measure the impact of its mission in terms of increasing awareness and appreciation for forgotten artists like Alexey Balabouev?
We measure our impact by the extent to which we are able to shed light on these artists’ stories and contribute to their recognition within the artistic community. Being able to share these stories and participate in their preservation allows us to be active participants in history, fostering a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of artistic expression. Thus, our success is not solely defined by financial metrics but by the meaningful contributions we make to the rediscovery and celebration of talented artists like Balabouev, ensuring their rightful place in the annals of art history.
Given your experience in both diplomatic work and the art world, how do you see the role of art in shaping cultural narratives and fostering international understanding, especially in the context of representing Georgia on the global stage?
The intersection of diplomatic work and the art world offers a unique perspective on the role of art in shaping cultural narratives and fostering international understanding, especially in representing Georgia on a global stage. Art serves as a powerful medium for transcending language barriers and communicating the essence of a culture to diverse audiences worldwide. In the context of Georgia, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and distinct aesthetic sensibility, showcasing Georgian art becomes not only a marketing strategy but also a reflection of the nation’s identity and values. Just as Georgian wine and fashion have established themselves on the global stage, art presents an opportunity for Georgia to further solidify its cultural presence and influence. By promoting Georgian art internationally, Reach Art Visual (R.A.V.) aims to contribute to this narrative and elevate the country’s cultural standing on the world stage.
Looking ahead, are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that R.A.V. is excited about?
We are preparing for an exciting international project that is currently in its nascent stages. While details are still emerging, we are poised to make a significant impact on the Georgian art market and beyond. I encourage everyone to stay tuned for updates as we work diligently to bring this project to fruition. As always, R.A.V. remains committed to promoting Georgian artists and their unique contributions to the global artistic landscape, and we are eager to embark on this new endeavor with enthusiasm and dedication.
