Interregional Scientific and Practical Conference in Omsk: The Legacy of the Roerich Family and the Evolution of Humanity

On November 28, 2024, the city of Omsk hosted the Interregional Scientific and Practical Conference titled “The Scientific and Cultural-Historical Significance of the Creative Legacy of the Roerich Family and Its Role in the Evolution of Humanity.” The event marked the 150th anniversary of the birth of Nicholas Roerich, a renowned Russian artist, academician of the Imperial Academy of Arts, scientist, thinker, archaeologist, writer, traveler, and public figure.

This year also commemorates the 100th anniversary of the start of Nicholas Roerich's Central Asian Expedition, which traversed India, China, Mongolia, and parts of Russia. The expedition stopped in Omsk and sought to identify the common elements uniting the cultures of various countries and peoples.

The following themes were discussed at the conference:

• The artistic and scientific activities of the Roerich family.

• The interaction between Eastern and Western cultures.

• Art and ethnography of Altai in the Roerich family’s research.

• The scientific and artistic discovery of Central Asia.

During the plenary session, Doctor of Philosophy, Professor Sergey Kostarev from Omsk State Transport University (OmGUPS) and an expert from the Consortium “Sustainable Development” delivered a report titled “Humans in Nature: To Live or to Survive?” His presentation focused on ecological awareness and the importance of harmony between humans and the natural world.

The event provided an important platform for discussing the cultural and scientific legacy of the Roerich family and its impact on societal development.