Over 70,000 rubles were raised through the "Arts Tree" charity project, which Moscow Polytechnic University implemented jointly with the ACM (Art Centre. Moscow) and the International Association of Organizations Providing Aid to Children. The funds raised went toward fulfilling the dream of children from Moscow region orphanages—a trip to the birthplace of Father Frost, Veliky Ustyug.

Information: We continue to report on the projects being implemented at the university as part of the "Project-Based Activities" program. Today, we focus on the Moscow Polytechnic University project " ACM. Creative Christmas Tree Decorations Based on Artwork."

The "Arts Tree," which delighted visitors to the Center for Arts this winter, was decorated exclusively with toys created by orphanage children with the help of Moscow Polytech’s students. Together with the Center for Project Activities, the students developed a line of Christmas decorations based on actual paintings and graphic works from the center's private collections, and then held master classes for the children. The project brought together the gallery, the university, three orphanages, and hundreds of caring visitors.

"The key idea of the project was to turn children from orphanages into creators of Christmas tree decorations," explains Ivan Petukhov, project manager and associate professor at the Center for Project Activities. "The Christmas tree baubles became a creative outlet for them, and the results of their work were displayed at a charity Christmas tree in the heart of the city. Visitors chose their favorite baubles and made a donation. Thus, through this project, kindness came full circle: from a beautiful image to a real, measurable benefit."

Andrian Melnikov, owner of the ACM, commissioned the project and the venue was the center's space, which displays works from private art collections. The exhibitions change several times a year, creating a constantly evolving context for student development.

An interdisciplinary team of Moscow Polytech's students implemented the project: creators, designers, and layout designers were responsible for developing concepts, technical solutions, and visual design. Under the leadership of Ivan Petukhov, the team went from research and prototyping to organizing master classes and a final presentation at the Center for Contemporary Art.

What is the relevance of the project?

Ivan Petukhov:

"Firstly, children from orphanages receive not only financial support but also educational, creative, and emotionally charged leisure activities that help them unlock their potential. Through the master classes led by the students, the children interacted with art, almost as if they were working with their own hands. Secondly, the Moscow Polytech’s students mastered new techniques, strengthened their design and digital competencies, and significantly expanded the range of high-quality souvenirs they produce. It's important that the students feel socially useful by participating in the charity event."

Three main toy formats were developed.

Engraved Ball: a matte ball with a dark top layer and a set of sketches based on the palettes of Nicholas Roerich and other artists. The top layer is removed with a stick, revealing the colored layer underneath, creating a unique design.

Decoupage: blanks are cut out on CNC laser machines, which are then decorated with elements from reproductions of CIM paintings (forest, sea, mountains, and New Year's motifs).

A filled ball: transparent hemispheres are joined to form a ball, with a base placed inside, onto which children attach hand-cut plywood elements inspired by the works of Aivazovsky, Roerich, and others.

During the project, the team created prototypes and produced 100 copies of each toy, held three workshops at the "Happiness to Give Happiness," "Ray of Hope," and "Dmitry Donskoy" shelters, organized a charity Christmas tree at the Center for Cultural Heritage, and created a project website with videos. The students are currently exploring possible options for launching a collectible souvenir line.

Project website.