New Delhi — Delhi is set to witness a landmark cultural convergence as “Dream Vision: India,” a first-of-its-kind Indo–Russian art exhibition, opens today at the Lalit Kala Akademi. Curated by celebrated Russian artist Nikas Safronov, the exhibition marks the beginning of a major international cultural series aimed at strengthening artistic diplomacy between India, Russia and the wider world. The exhibition will run in New Delhi from 7–21 December and later travel to Mumbai from 25 December 2025 to 15 January 2026.
Described as a space where “the language of art meets the world of dialogue,” the exhibition celebrates the deep cultural links between India and Russia—rooted in shared emotions, spirituality and a profound reverence for nature. The interplay between Indian miniature traditions and the sensory depth of Russian iconography and folk art forms the emotional canvas on which this artistic collaboration unfolds.
A Cultural Bridge Between Two Civilizations
Safronov’s “Dream Vision: India” is more than an art event—it is a diplomatic moment where tradition, technology and cultural exchange converge. Supported by Rosneft Oil Company, the project highlights how art can serve as a powerful instrument of soft diplomacy.
Nikas Safronov, one of Russia’s most acclaimed contemporary artists and a People’s Artist of the Russian Federation, brings to India 100 paintings spanning the arc of his creative journey—encompassing classicism, symbolism, landscape traditions and his signature, enigmatic style known as Dream Vision. Several works in the exhibition have been created exclusively for Indian audiences, reflecting the artist’s admiration for India’s mythology, architecture and spiritual heritage.
Safronov’s global stature is reflected in his extraordinary portfolio of portraits, including more than 50 heads of state, religious figures, royalty and international luminaries. His diplomatic engagements in 2025—including a private audience with Pope Francis and the gifting of a portrait of U.S. President Donald Trump through Special Representative Steven Witkoff—have made him an emblematic figure in the realm of cultural diplomacy.
Merging Classical Art with Artificial Intelligence
One of the defining features of the exhibition is the seamless blending of traditional painting techniques with advanced digital technology. Each gallery is designed as an experiential journey: visitors begin with classical works and gradually move into immersive digital continuums created with artificial intelligence and multimedia installations.
Divided into 15 thematic zones, the exhibition transforms spectators into participants. AI-enhanced compositions animate select artworks, allowing viewers to feel as if they have stepped into the canvas rather than merely observing it. A specially designed surround-sound system guides the emotional experience, intensifying the connection between the artwork and the audience.
Safronov describes AI not as a trend but as a co-creator, a tool that amplifies the artist’s vision without replacing it. “We are moving toward a multipolar world,” he says. “Art, too, must become accessible, inclusive and multipolar. Technology helps us bring classical ideas into new forms without losing their soul.”
Free Public Access: Art for All
In line with the exhibition’s ethos of cultural inclusion, entry is entirely free—a step intended to democratise access to contemporary Russian art and deepen public understanding of Russia’s cultural landscape. The aim is to transform exhibition spaces into open platforms of people-to-people diplomacy, where art becomes a shared language for mutual respect and international harmony.
Rosneft’s Cultural Diplomacy
For Rosneft, supporting this exhibition aligns with its long-term strategy of promoting Russia’s cultural identity on the global stage—not only through economic engagement but through humanistic and artistic initiatives. The company has been instrumental in several successful global cultural programmes, including the Mariinsky Theatre tour in Qatar, the Sretensky Monastery Choir tour in China, and Tatiana Navka’s ice show in India.
“Dream Vision: India” now becomes a vital link in this cultural chain—symbolising the belief that nations grow closer not only through trade and politics but through shared creativity.
An Exhibition That Speaks the Universal Language of Humanity
As India hosts one of the most significant cultural events of the year, Safronov emphasises his deep emotional connection to the country. “India has always inspired artists across centuries,” he says. “Bringing my work here is my way of honouring that heritage and strengthening the bond between our people.”
“Dream Vision: India” ultimately demonstrates that art acknowledges no borders or languages—it speaks directly to the human heart. This exhibition, with its blend of classical mastery, digital innovation and cultural diplomacy, stands as a testament to the power of creativity in uniting civilizations.
