Penza, 7 May 2013. PenzaNews. IV International Symposium on art glass, which gathered the craftsmen from Russia, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Finland, Belarus and France, began its work in Nikolsk, the Penza region.

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The chairman of the government of the Penza region Yuri Krivov emphasized in his opening speech that the symposium is not only a creative platform for the exchange of experience between glass and crystal craftsmen, but also a field for strengthening international relations, as well as attracting attention to Nikolsk, including that of potential investors.

“I am pleased to note that the fourth symposium is the most representative. This confirms the fact that the idea which was born in this wonderful place is alive and is growing,” he said during a meeting with journalists on Monday, May 6.

According to Yuri Krivov, the regional administration is ready to provide necessary support to the craft which appeared in Nikolsk around 2,5 centuries ago.

“The craft, once developed by the ancestors should be inherited by the young generation. I am sure that the symposium will promote the development of small business in the city, and the magic of this place — Nikolsk — will not be lost over the years,” the chairman of the regional government added.

In turn, the head of the regional department of culture and archive Evgeny Shilov reminded that the first symposium on art glass was held in Nikolsk in 2006.

“Then, the event was held in 2009 and 2011. And now, in 2013, it has a special meaning. The fact is that we are preparing for the big anniversary. The next year, the glass and crystal production of Nikolsk will celebrate its 250th birthday, and the Museum of Glass and Crystal will be 225 years old. We all know how much have been created during all these years. Only some of these pieces of art are still in Nikolsk, and the rest are exhibited in various museums around the world,” he said.

Noting the importance of the symposium, the honored artist of Russia, the member of the Academy of Arts of Russia Alexander Fokin explained that this event allows saving the tradition of the craftsmen.

“Before 2006, such symposia were held only in the Soviet Union. Then glass factories which previously numbered over 300 began closing, and there remained only about 3 or 4 of them. The craftsmen lost their place to create, to communicate and share experience. Now this opportunity is re-appearing. I do not think that with the help of symposia we can raise production, but they can help to draw attention to the industry and preserve what already exists,” he said.

Presenting Nikolsk glasswork traditions to the participants, the head of the area administration Mikhail Kuznetsov said that currently on the territory of the municipality, there are 21 glass and crystal enterprises, including six small plants.

“Nikolsk glass cluster involves over two thousand people. Production capacity is 750-800 million per year. Thanks to the glass business, we increased the revenue by 3 times compared with 2005, and now transfer 4 times more tax revenue to the regional and federal budgets. I believe that the collaboration of artists and businessmen will be favorable for the area in attracting new investment,” he said.

After the opening, the participants, journalists and other guests of the symposium visited local businesses of Nikolsk and the Museum of Glass and Crystal.