7/21/03
Russian Odyssey: Riches of the State Museum
Opens in Fall 2003 at Florida International Museum
Exhibit Celebrates 800 Years of Russian History

St. Petersburg, Florida (July 21, 2003) Florida International Museum (FIM) announces the opening of an outstanding exhibit, Russian Odyssey: Riches of the State Russian Museum, featuring 800 years Russian history. The first of its kind exhibit will be featured November 1, 2003 through April 4, 2004. The display of more than 300 objects is part of a ten year agreement between FIM and the State Russian Museum. “This is the first time these objects will have traveled outside of Russia,” says Kathy Oathout, FIM Executive Director. “We will have a remarkable display of artwork, paintings, porcelain, furniture and jewelry. This is part of Russian history and culture.”

FIM is planning the layout now for the 10,000 square foot exhibit. The objects are scheduled to arrive in mid-October of this year. Dr. Eugenia Petrova of the State Russian Museum will be in St. Petersburg to oversee the placement of the objects. Vera Espinola Berry will be the on-site curator. Ms. Berry was very involved in the blockbuster exhibit, Treasures of the Czars at FIM in 1995.

The public is invited to join the Board of Directors of FIM as they usher in this exciting exhibit. On Saturday, November 1, 2003 from 6:00 t0 8:00 pm. at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, a black-tie cocktail reception will be held. Following the gala, guest will be shuttled to the museum for a tour of this large-scale exhibition that has never before traveled to the United States.
For more information, please contact Cozee Smith Director of Marketing, at 727-822-3693, extension 260, 727-525-8030, or cozee@tampabay.rr.com. For more information on Florida International Museum visit floridamuseum.org.

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The Florida International Museum is a non-profit educational institution supported, in part, by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Florida Arts Council, State of Florida, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the City of St. Petersburg. Other major sponsors include Progress Energy, Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, and St. Petersburg Times.