Erarta is a contemporary art museum on Vasilyevsky Island in St Petersburg, with galleries spread across five floors. Its collection brings together painting, sculpture, graphics, installations and multimedia works by Russian artists, alongside changing exhibitions. The displays range from established artists to younger voices, with many explanations available in English. Thoughtful lighting, music and seating make it easy to pause with a work instead of moving straight through. There is also a café on the third floor and a shop near the exit.
A contemporary art museum on Vasilyevsky Island
Erarta opened in 2010 as St Petersburg’s first private museum of contemporary art. Its name combines the words “era” and “arta”, meaning “time of art”. The museum occupies a converted neoclassical building on Vasilyevsky Island, at 29 Liniya Vasil'yevskogo Ostrova, 2.
The collection includes works by more than 300 artists from over 20 regions of Russia. Across its galleries, you can find painting, graphics, sculpture, objects, installations and other forms of contemporary art. The museum also presents temporary exhibitions, with subjects that have included fashion, industrial design and digital art.
How the galleries are arranged
The museum spans five floors, with permanent collection galleries alongside spaces for temporary exhibitions and multimedia displays. The mix of mediums gives you different ways into the work, from paintings and sculpture to installations that invite a more active response.
English explanations accompany many of the displays. An audio guide is also available in Russian and English, which can help add context as you move through the galleries. Seating is placed around the museum, so you can take a break or spend longer with a particular work.
A café, restaurant and shop
The café is on the third floor, making it a convenient pause during a longer visit. The museum also has a restaurant and a souvenir shop. The shop is near the exit, so you can leave time to browse before finishing your visit.
FAQ
How long do you need at Erarta?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to explore the five floors.
Are the explanations at Erarta available in English?
Many exhibition explanations are available in English. An audio guide is also offered in English and Russian.
Does Erarta have a café?
Yes. The café is on the third floor. The museum also has a restaurant.
Is Erarta suitable for children?
The museum is listed as family-friendly and has facilities for children. The material also mentions child-focused workshops, but does not give current schedules.
