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Dmitriy ShevardnadzeGeorgian artist, public figure.
Date of Birth: 01.12.1885
Country:  Georgia |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Return to Georgia and Artistic Pursuits
- Cultural Activism
- Confrontation with Beria
- Imprisonment and Legacy
- Family Connections
Early Life and Education
Dmitry Shevardnadze was born on December 1, 1885, in the village of Bakhvi in the Guria region of Georgia. He completed his secondary education at a local real school and went on to study at the Munich Academy of Art from 1907 to 1912.
Return to Georgia and Artistic Pursuits
In 1916, Shevardnadze returned to his homeland. He played a significant role in collecting works by Georgian artists, including Niko Pirosmani, and in restoring ancient churches. As a pioneer in Georgian theater, he served as an artistic director and participated in the production of the first Georgian feature film, "Kristiana" (1916-1918).
Cultural Activism
In 1920, Shevardnadze co-founded the Georgian National Gallery of Art. He was also instrumental in establishing the Georgian Academy of Arts in 1922. As a member of the Committee for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, he actively campaigned against the demolition of historic structures.
Confrontation with Beria
In 1937, Shevardnadze boldly opposed the plans of Georgian Communist Party Secretary Lavrenti Beria to demolish the Metekhi Assumption Church. Beria offered Shevardnadze the position of director of a museum that would house a replica of the church in exchange for his silence, but Shevardnadze refused.
Imprisonment and Legacy
Shortly after his confrontation with Beria, Shevardnadze was arrested and presumably executed. The exact date of his death remains unknown. Despite his untimely demise, the Metekhi church remains standing today. Shevardnadze's artistic and cultural contributions were preserved thanks to the efforts of painter Ketevan Maglashvili and his cousin, Ketevan Chelidze, who rescued his archive.
Family Connections
Dmitry Shevardnadze was a distant relative (paternal cousin) of former President of Georgia Eduard Shevardnadze.
