CLEAN : In Moscow, a new arts centre opens to brush up Russia's image

The transcript discusses the cultural exchange between Russia and America, focusing on the influence of American soap operas like Santa Barbara in post-Soviet Russia. It reflects on the cultural differences experienced by the speaker, who is from Iceland, and their observations on Russian culture. The transcript concludes with a proposal for a contemporary art institution in Moscow to foster cultural dialogue.

What impact did American soap operas have on post-Soviet society?

• They reinforced socialist values.

• They created aspirations for capitalism.

• They were largely ignored.

• They promoted traditional Russian culture.

What significant event coincided with the airing of 'Santa Barbara' in Russia?

• The fall of the Berlin Wall.

• The start of the Cold War.

• The launch of the first Russian satellite.

• The dissolution of the Soviet Union.

How does the speaker describe their experience of freedom compared to Russians?

• They enjoy more freedom in Iceland.

• They have more freedom in Russia.

• They feel equally free in both places.

• They feel more restricted in Iceland.

What has historically inspired great Russian culture according to the speaker?

• Complete freedom and lack of constraints.

• The influence of Western media.

• Isolation from the rest of the world.

• Working within societal constraints.

What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between constraints and creativity in Russian culture?

• Constraints have had no impact on creativity.

• Constraints have stifled creativity.

• Constraints have inspired creativity.

• Creativity has flourished without constraints.

What is the proposed purpose of the new institution in Moscow?

• To serve as a political think tank.

• To focus solely on Russian historical art.

• To create a dialogue between Russian and international contemporary art.

• To promote traditional Russian art exclusively.

What is the intended outcome of the cultural exchange proposed by the speaker?

• To focus on commercial art sales.

• To replace Russian art with international art.

• To engage the public in a cultural dialogue.

• To isolate Russian art from global influences.