Russia National Day 2020

Today’s Doodle, illustrated by guest artist Olesya Shchukina, commemorates Russia National Day, known locally as Den Rossii. On this day in 1990, Russia became an independent nation following the official adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Russian Federation, which was then followed by the establishment of the national anthem and flag.

From the Bering Sea in the country’s Asian east, to the shores of the Baltic Sea in the European west, Russia has celebrated June 12th as a public holiday and a time to pay tribute to the country’s identity and heritage since 1992. 

Today, Russia’s widely varied cultures and ethnicities are symbolized by historical customs, such as the playing of the country’s many traditional folk instruments. These unique musical instruments include Iozhkis (spoons), buben (tambourines), and accordions, as depicted in today’s Doodle. 

С днем России! Happy Russia Day!

Guest Artist Q&A with Olesya Shchukina

Today’s Doodle was illustrated by Russian guest artist Olesya Shchukina. Below, she shares her thoughts behind the making of this Doodle:

Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally?

A: Russia is my home country, though I've been living in France since 2010. Nevertheless, this topic made me think about what it is like to be a Russian and what unites us. I also thought a lot about the diversity of Russia and its many different peoples and cultures.

Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project?

A: I decided to think about all the people who live in Russia. I wanted to find a way to show its unity and diversity at the same time. So one of my ideas was to put together very different characters and make them dance and play music using traditional music instruments. In other words, having fun together.

Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle?

A: I looked at many pictures of different music instruments as well as traditional costumes. Not only Russian ones but also Yakuts, Tuvans, Tatars, etc. Not all of them could make it to the final illustration, as the space is very limited, but I did my best.

Q: What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A: I'd like people to think about how different the people of Russia are, both by appearance and cultural background, and to see this as a huge advantage. I hope this Doodle inspires more people to learn more about Russia’s diverse culture.