Nikolai Akimov: art and theatre at the Marble Palace

When: 2 September 2026 — 11 January 2027

Where: Russian Museum, Marble Palace, 5/1 Millionnaya Street, Saint Petersburg

Nikolai Akimov is closely associated with theatre, but the Marble Palace exhibition reveals a broader artistic world. Directing, stage design, portraiture and book illustration become parts of one story about an artist who thought in images.

Nikolai Akimov · Poster for The Merchants of Glory (1925). A historical theatre poster combining lettering and illustration.Nikolai Akimov · Russian Museum · Source

What to look at

The project includes a theatre poster, illustrations, portraits and stage-design sketches. One of the announced works is a design for An Ordinary Miracle. It suggests how a production begins before an actor appears: the space already sets a mood and promises a story.

The exhibition marks the artist’s 125th anniversary. It is relevant beyond theatre audiences: if you enjoy drawing and visual storytelling, compare how Akimov’s language changes between a book page and a large stage.

Nikolai Akimov · Set design for An Ordinary Miracle (1956). A seascape with sailing ships.Nikolai Akimov · Russian Museum · Source

Nikolai Akimov · Portrait of Elizaveta Polonskaya (1927). A graphic portrait of a woman.Nikolai Akimov · Russian Museum · Source

Dates and venue

The exhibition dates are 2 September 2026–11 January 2027. The venue is the Russian Museum’s Marble Palace, 5/1 Millionnaya Street. The museum occupies several buildings, so use this particular address. Check the project’s official page for tickets and visitor arrangements.

If you are coming from a hotel, discuss the journey with Hola Taxi. Specify the Marble Palace and departure address. The museum visit and arrival transport from Pulkovo are planned separately.