Soviet Cities

SKU: PR40129

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Sale price$79.70

Description

Discover the haunting beauty of Soviet Cities through the lens of renowned Russian photographer Arseniy Kotov. This meticulously crafted book, published by FUEL Design & Publishing in 2020, captures the essence of Russian architecture and its poignant transformation since the collapse of the Soviet Union. With 240 pages filled with striking imagery, this stunning visual journey invites you to explore the architectural heritage that has often been overlooked. From the grand structures of the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to the austere high-rise dormitory blocks of Volgograd, Kotov's photography documents the stark beauty of Soviet-era buildings during the evocative 'blue hour'—a time when warm yellow lights illuminate the cold concrete against a twilight backdrop. Ideal for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone captivated by urban exploration, this book serves as a vital record of a bygone era. Through Kotov's idealistic lens, we rediscover a civilization that aimed to conquer nature and stretch into space, encapsulated in the powerful forms of unadorned concrete. Whether you’re looking to enrich your collection or seeking the perfect gift for a fellow admirer of post-Soviet history, this book stands as a profound homage to the cities that shaped a generation. Don’t miss your opportunity to own this essential piece of modern photographic art. Shipping for this item is free, and please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9781916218413.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781916218413
Year: 2020
Publisher: FUEL Design & Publishing
Pages: 240


Description:


In recent years Russian cities have visibly changed. The architectural heritage of the Soviet period has not been fully acknowledged. As a result many unique modernist buildings have been destroyed or changed beyond recognition.

Russian photographer Arseniy Kotov intends to document these buildings and their surroundings before they are lost forever. He likes to take pictures in winter, during the 'blue hour', which occurs immediately after sunset or just before sunrise. At this time, the warm yellow colours inside apartment block windows contrast with the twilight gloom outside. To Kotov, this atmosphere reflects the Soviet period of his imagination. His impression of this time is unashamedly idealistic: he envisages a great civilization, built on a fair society, which hopes to explore nature and conquer space.

From the Baikonur Cosmodrome in the desert steppes of Kazakhstan to the grim monolithic high-rise dormitory blocks of inner city Volgograd, Kotov captures the essence of the post-Soviet world. 'The USSR no longer exists and in these photographs we can see what remains - the most outstanding buildings and constructions, where Soviet people lived and how Soviet cities once looked: no decoration, no bright colours and no luxury, only bare concrete and powerful forms.'

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