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Lost Georgian art returns home in rare Bukiya collection donation

Decades after leaving Georgia, Vladimir Bukiya's paintings are finally back—where they belong. His son's gift revives a piece of the nation's artistic soul.

The image shows a poster with a map of Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Osetia. The map is detailed and...
The image shows a poster with a map of Georgia, Abkhazia, and South Osetia. The map is detailed and shows the various geographical features of the region, such as rivers, mountains, and cities. The text on the poster provides additional information about the region.

Lost Georgian art returns home in rare Bukiya collection donation

A collection of rare paintings by the late Georgian artist Vladimir Bukiya has been donated to Tbilisi's Shalva Amiranashvili Museum of Fine Arts. The works, gifted by his son Dimitri Bukiya, mark a significant contribution to Georgia's cultural heritage. The event drew attention from local intellectuals and officials, highlighting the value of such artistic returns to the homeland.

Vladimir Bukiya, a celebrated Georgian painter, graduated from the Georgian Academy of Fine Art in 1976. His career saw his works exhibited across Georgia, Estonia, Russia, France, Spain, and the United States. Now, decades later, his son Dimitri has ensured a portion of his legacy remains in Georgia.

Dimitri Bukiya recently donated three of his father's paintings to the museum. By March 2026, he plans to transfer an additional 47 works, bringing the total to 50. The gesture follows similar contributions from other Georgian artists abroad, including Vladimir Kandelaki and Otar Shiukashvili, who have also returned their creations to Georgia. The donation ceremony was organised by Neli Kobiashvili and attended by Tbilisi's art community. Minister of Culture Tinatin Rukhadze spoke at the event, stressing the government's commitment to preserving and promoting Georgia's cultural identity. Sculptor Gya Japaridze also shared insights into Bukiya's life, character, and artistic influence. Officials noted that while the market value of these works matters, their deeper cultural significance holds greater weight. The paintings will now form part of the museum's permanent collection, accessible to the public.

The donated works will remain in Tbilisi, enriching the national collection at the Shalva Amiranashvili Museum. With more pieces set to arrive by 2026, the initiative reflects a broader effort by Georgian artists abroad to reconnect with their roots. The government's support for such donations underscores its focus on safeguarding the country's artistic heritage.

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