GES-2: Cultural Space in Central Moscow

The former power station building in central Moscow on Bolotnaya Embankment long caused dissatisfaction among residents. This cultural heritage site of Russia looked empty and abandoned until entrepreneur Leonid Mikhelson breathed new life into it. He acquired GES-2, conducted a large-scale reconstruction, and launched a project aimed at promoting contemporary Russian art. Staff prefer to call this place a center of enlightenment rather than a museum.

A Long Journey from Power Station to Cultural Center

The history of GES-2 began in February 1907 when a power station was built on Balchug Island to supply Moscow's tram network. Architect Vasily Bashkirov designed the building in the neo-Russian style with numerous details and large windows. The 100-meter-long building was equipped with modern equipment, including Swiss turbines and German boilers.

The name GES-2 appeared in 1925; before that, the station was called Tramway Station. After the revolution and the Bolsheviks' rise to power, it was nationalized and reconstructed. During World War II, the equipment was evacuated to the Urals, and the building suffered from bombings, as the Germans considered it a strategic object.

Interesting fact: During the bombings, the boiler house pipes were dismantled so they would not serve as landmarks for enemy aircraft.

With the development of technology, the station gradually lost its relevance. In 2006, it ceased operations due to wear and unprofitability.

In 2014, the V-A-C Foundation for Contemporary Art, led by Teresa Mavika and supported by Mikhelson, took notice of the building. The foundation collaborated with global organizations, and soon the idea arose to create a center in Russia. Ultimately, GES-2 was chosen, which was supported by the head of the Department of Culture, Kapkov.

Reconstruction began a year later under the guidance of architect Renzo Piano. The project aimed to restore the historical appearance of the building while adding modern elements such as solar panels and open spaces. Special attention was paid to the stucco and color of the facade.

Mavika and Piano also insisted on landscaping the area around the building. They planted 620 birch trees, restored the fence by the canal, and placed antique turbines among the trees. They also restored the famous clock tower, which, according to legend, was built with the participation of Vladimir Shukhov.

The new life of GES-2 began on August 17, 2021, when the foundation announced the launch of the project. A special program was held for the state's top officials, and the doors opened to the public on December 4. The place has great potential and attracts many visitors.

Filling GES-2

The former station building does not look modern but impresses with its power. Bright blue pipes harmonize with the sky and do not stand out against the historical backdrop of Moscow. Renzo Piano organized a smooth transition into the urban space, with windows made at ground level, giving the building an organic feel.

The main entrance is located on the embankment side, where the ticket office, shop, and restaurant are situated. The building consists of terraces and balconies, with each section having its own color scheme. The spaces seem even emptier due to the glass vault, which plays with sunlight reflections.

Interesting fact: The monumentality of GES-2 creates a sense of solitude for guests, even though the number of visitors is growing.

The auditorium is equipped with an elevator, a grand piano, and lifting structures that increase the stage space. The audience rows descend below the floor, and the hall's acoustics were developed by the company responsible for the Paris Philharmonic. One wall of the hall is missing, allowing the outdoor space to be used as a backdrop.

Underground, activity is buzzing: there are workshops, studios, and a sound listening room. On the first floor is the 'Atelier' with play areas for children, where they can create items and take them home for free. In 'Settings,' the connection between art and music is showcased.

There are no guards here; they are replaced by mediators. Visitors move freely around the area where installations by contemporary artists are displayed. The opening of GES-2 was a significant event, as there are no analogs in Russia that focus on engaging in the creation of art.

Prospects and Challenges

Political instability has affected the season's program; some projects have been canceled, including works by Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson. The 'Santa Barbara' project was also closed, a remake of which had been filmed for several months.

Teresa Mavika left the project to focus on a cultural center in Venice but continues to collaborate with Mikhelson. The management tries to distance itself from politics, but this is not always successful. An example was the scandal surrounding Urs Fischer's sculpture 'Big Clay No. 4,' which some Muscovites considered provocative.

Address and How to Get There

The ticket office operates from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and GES-2 hosts events, lectures, and exhibitions, screening documentaries. Current information and ticket prices can be found on the website or by phone. Advance registration is required for group tours.

Address: Moscow, Bolotnaya Embankment, 15. The building is located in the city center, near public transport stops. The nearest metro stations, 'Kropotkinskaya,' 'Borovitskaya,' 'Polyanka,' and 'Tretyakovskaya,' can be reached in a few minutes.