Russia’s defence minister has just launched his own art exhibition

One of Russia’s most senior politicians has unveiled a collection of his personal artwork at an exhibition in his home region of Tuva.

Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu created a range of cedarwood sculptures, caskets and vases for the show, which were hailed by the museum for their “non-standard artistic vision.” He also donated 43 paintings, sketches and photographs.

While Shoigu’s artistic talents have been largely unknown until now, he joins a growing group of high-level Russian officials who publicly indulge their creative passions. Former Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev was a keen poet and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also enjoys penning verses. Even President Vladimir Putin regularly sits down to tinkle the ivories.

The Tuva show forms just one part of a special programme — Undying and Legendary — celebrating local military culture and this year marking a century since the founding of the Red Army.

Other highlights, provided by the Russian Defence Ministry’s culture department, include military photos, propaganda posters and portraits.

Undying and Legendary will run at the National Museum of the Tuvan Republic between 6 and 24 June.