The Steam Mill – Symbol of Industrial Chișinău

The study includes the analysis of works of art executed in various techniques of painting and graphics that have as subject the Red Mill, or as it is also called the Levenzon Mill. The building is one of the first steam mills, a monument of industrial architecture of local value, included in the Register of Historical and Cultural Monuments of Chișinău and which today is in a damaged state. The architecture of the industrial building could be analyzed not only by the plans of architects and engineers, but also by the works of visual artists. The theme was addressed in the paintings and graphics of Mihai Grecu, Valentina Brâncoveanu, Vasile Moșanu, Inesa Țâpina, Ludmila Țonceva, Ion Serbinov, Grigore Plămădeală, Maia Serbinov-Cheptănaru, Maria Serbinov, Iraida Ciobanu et al., the works differ both in terms of execution technique as well as by composition, chromatic range, etc. As some of the works are in public and private collections abroad, the building becomes better known and can be exploited as a tourist attraction. The importance of this building was indisputable in the period of the 19th – the 20th century. Currently, the edifice is at risk of being destroyed, but thanks to the achievements of plastic artists, it will certainly remain in the memory of the Chișinău residents.