slothis · English

Moscow's Tretyakov Gallery & Russian Clock-Out Culture

2016-06-28 · Original (Korean)

This article was translated from the original Korean post with AI assistance. Read the original Korean post →

Unfortunately, all the photos were deleted

After a satisfying lunch, we headed to the Tretyakov Gallery as planned. I don't know about my girlfriend, but I'm a complete novice when it comes to art, especially paintings. Rather than truly appreciating them, I tend to just check off what I've researched beforehand. That's why audio guides or books are important, but the Tretyakov Gallery's audio guide was only available in English. I think I barely understood about 10% of it. Thanks to that, I didn't know which paintings were the famous ones, but I actually ended up focusing more on the artwork itself, looking closer at the expressions and atmosphere in the pieces.

There was a sign indicating that photography was prohibited in the gallery, but it was fascinating how everyone was freely taking pictures. I secretly took a photo of my companion, but when I asked a Russian friend later, they said it's actually fine to take photos in Russian galleries. They asked back, saying the sign meant "no flash," not "no photography," and wondered why it was such a big deal. They even found it weird, saying, "I don't understand why other countries' museums don't let you take pictures." Come to think of it, I've never really thought about why photography shouldn't be allowed. The Russian way of viewing—"You paid to get in, so do as you please as long as you don't cause harm"—might actually be more correct. Russia really gives off such a cool vibe.

However, even these seemingly 24/7 cool Russians have one very strict rule:

'Never stay past their clock-out time!!'

It's a really, really firm rule. We entered an hour before and came out right at closing time, but all the staff already had their bags packed, screaming with their whole bodies for us to get out quickly, and even badgering us about why we were taking so long to get our belongings. We didn't come out because we weren't done looking... Back home, we might say the customer is king and complain about them rushing us for being a little late, but in this country where everyone is equal, even if you're a customer, they'll kick you out if you delay their quitting time. They lock the doors and leave work right alongside us, without even taking time to clean up. Thinking about it, it seems too cold, but maybe doing it this way is right, too.

In Russia, no matter what happens, you have to finish things before their clock-out time. Otherwise, you'll see a truly furious Russian. Seeing that makes you realize that their usual unsmiling gaze is actually just a normal look.

Expenses

Total Expenses 6526R + $99.10

Total Trip Expenses 525,936 KRW + 30,558 RUB + $152.26