Celebrated glassblower Yuri Lenshin showcases miniature artistry at Pushkin House in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, December 15, 2024 (FMC) – Esteemed glassblowing artist Yuri Lenshin captivated an audience at the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Addis Ababa on Saturday, where he conducted a live masterclass on creating exquisite glass miniatures.

The event attracted a diverse crowd of students, artists, public figures, and academics eager to witness Lenshin’s incredible craftsmanship. During the session, he displayed several notable pieces that have received international acclaim.

Utilizing a gas burner and specialized tools, Lenshin skillfully crafted delicate glass sculptures of animals, manipulating molten glass with expert precision.

Previously, his works have been exhibited at the Ale School of Fine Arts and Design affiliated with Addis Ababa University, as well as at the Hamere Birhan Traditional Parchment Works training institute in the city.

Lenshin highlighted that his masterclass is part of a broader initiative to strengthen cultural and people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and Russia. He expressed a strong desire to impart his knowledge of glassblowing to Ethiopian youth and artists, promising to return to the country for future engagements.

A Guinness World Records holder, Yuri Lenshin has dedicated over 50 years to the art of glassblowing, showcasing his talents across Europe, Asia, and more. This event marked his inaugural appearance in Africa, where his artwork has been displayed in esteemed museums and private collections worldwide, encompassing regions from Western and Eastern Europe to North and South America, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.