Kazan Innovation University named after V.G. Timiryasova hosted the grand opening of the VII All-Russian Design Olympiad named after Alexander Mikhailovich Rodchenko.

The Olympiad, organized by the Department of Design of KIU with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Tatarstan, has been held at the university for several years running and has become a significant event in the field of art and design education. It brings together talented schoolchildren and students from different regions of Russia, creating a space for creative development, professional self-determination, and experience exchange.

This year, the Olympiad is timed to coincide with the proclamation of the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia and the Year of Military and Labor Valor. The Olympiad serves as a tool for unification, bringing together young talents from different cities of the country — Kazan, Moscow, Saratov, Volgograd, Nizhnekamsk, Ufa, and others.

About 200 participants submitted their works for evaluation by the jury, and based on the selection results, the best of them were invited to Kazan to take part in the in-person stage.

The opening ceremony was opened by the First Vice-Rector of Kazan Innovation University, Doctor of Law, Professor, Honored Lawyer of the Republic of Tatarstan Igor Bikeev.

In his welcoming speech, he emphasized the significance of the Olympiad as a platform for unleashing the creative potential of young people and noted that the university strives to create conditions for the development of every student:

"The art of design is special. It is both a science and an art of self-expression. I am truly glad that today we are opening another Olympiad; every year we meet and award the best. Today and in the coming days, we will see many wonderful works! I convey to you the warmest greetings from the Rector of Kazan Innovation University, Asia Timiryasova. She loves this Olympiad, she always watches over you, she always tries to help. May wonderful works appear, may everyone show themselves and become a great designer and artist. I believe in this, so it will be!"

Also speaking with a welcoming address was the Head of the Professional Education Department of the Republic of Tatarstan, Andrey Fedorov:

"It is gratifying that KIU participates in all state projects and programs. It is very pleasant that there are so many children and young people at this event. The value of such Olympiads, meetings, competitions, and grants lies in communication. I wish that these days are rich and productive for you, that you learn something new and make friends. And as a result, everyone will gain valuable experience. I sincerely believe that the Olympiad will continue year after year! I wish everyone success, good luck, and beautiful works at the awards ceremony!"

A welcoming address to the participants was given by a representative of the Rodchenko creative dynasty — the artist's grandnephew, Vladimir Rodchenko, who shared memories of the great master and his influence on the development of art:

"Rodchenko's name glorified Kazan, all of Russia, and the Soviet Union. I want to say that the avant-garde of the 1920s played a very important role in the development of art."

The Chief Researcher and Curator of Exhibition Activities at the State Museum of Fine Arts of the Republic of Tatarstan, Dina Akhmetova, spoke about the significance of Rodchenko's path for today's art world:

"Since the 1990s, I have been deeply immersed

 in the work of Alexander Rodchenko. I am very proud that he studied precisely on this land, received his art education in Kazan. It is important to understand that Rodchenko was an ordinary person — just like many of you today. His path was not predetermined: it was in his youth, here in Kazan, that he made the choice to become an artist and designer, a person with a wide range of knowledge and skills. That is why I want to wish you: just like Rodchenko a hundred years ago, boldly set goals for yourself and consistently work towards achieving them."

Also speaking to the participants was a design blogger, brand ambassador, and member of the Union of Designers of Russia, Dina Shaydullina:

"I want to wish all participants of the Olympiad: create and dare!"

Special attention during the ceremony was paid to the historical legacy of Alexander Rodchenko. Participants were reminded that almost 100 years ago — on April 17, 1925 — he developed and implemented the interior design project for the Workers' Club for the Soviet Pavilion at the World Exhibition in Paris. This project became a landmark event and went down in the history of both art and science, cementing Rodchenko's status as one of the founders of modern design.

Following the official part, a creative performance prepared by students of Kazan Innovative University was presented to the participants. The concert program served as an inspiring conclusion to the opening ceremony and set the atmosphere for the upcoming competition days.

After the official part ended, participants took commemorative photos and went on a tour of the university's main building, where they continued to get acquainted with the educational and creative environment of KIU.

Ahead, participants face competition challenges, work with experts, new acquaintances, and professional discoveries. Good luck to the participants!