Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky – Murals and Panels in a Martian Landscape

Contents:

• A Portal to the Past
• How to View: How Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is Seen by Its Residents and Those Who Come from the Mainland
• Make It Brighter: What Residents and Architects Want from Urban Design
• Bombs, Space, Hills: New Meanings about the Main Thing

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is the capital of the Kamchatka Krai and an important port for air traffic and fishing vessels. Until 1992, the city was a closed military facility, gradually opening up to extreme sports enthusiasts, such as ocean surfing and volcano climbing. Despite criticism of its appearance, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky attracts attention with its unique natural environment and proximity to active volcanoes, offering residents and tourists numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures. The city continues to develop, attracting attention to its natural resources and potential for the space industry.

In the spring of 2023, a large-scale pre-project study was launched in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the goal of which is to improve five key urban areas. These zones are located in both the historical and transport centers of the city. We discussed the current state and future development of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky with architects and anthropologists, focusing on the importance of creating a comfortable urban environment for residents and tourists. The study aims to identify the needs of city residents and optimize the space, which will further improve the quality of life in the city.

Portal to the Past

The city is located along the coast of Avacha Bay and rises into the hills. For those who are here for the first time, it may seem like a real portal to the year 2007. At the monument to the Steller sea lions, the marine predators that winter in the port, you can spot teenagers—gothic youths in studded collars, with emo-style bangs, and colorful anime fans. The signs, buses, and building facades create an atmosphere of the past, as if everything is a little tired and harbouring memories of a bygone era. This place attracts not only tourists, but also those who want to immerse themselves in nostalgia and feel the unique atmosphere that has remained since then.

On the slopes there are cozy houses with a beautiful view of Seroglazka Bay. The area boasts modern hostels designed for tourists, as well as bathhouses and residential buildings surrounded by neat fences. Large residential areas feature houses with concrete ribs designed for earthquake resistance, as well as iron-clad firewalls. A mural depicting Benedict the Cat draws attention on Rybakov Avenue, while in neighboring blocks, there are artworks depicting the explorer Vitus Bering. These elements create a unique atmosphere in the area, attracting both tourists and locals. Graffiti in the modern city is impressive in its diversity and evokes nostalgia for bygone decades. These works range from simple inscriptions to complex, minimalist compositions in an oriental style. Many of the works are inspired by space themes, as well as maritime themes, where images of the Pacific Ocean flow seamlessly across building facades and fences. Graffiti not only decorates urban spaces but also creates a unique atmosphere, reflecting contemporary trends and cultural movements. The surrounding areas are strikingly unkempt: dug trenches for pipe installations, untidy parking lots, bright jewelry store signs, and glowing computer store windows. This creates an unattractive cityscape and negatively impacts the overall impression of the area. The unsatisfactory condition of the adjacent territories requires attention and improvement in order to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space for residents and guests.

In 2022, the Strelka consulting bureau presented a master plan for the city, which became the main A document for defining strategies for change in urban architecture. This plan covers key aspects such as development, reconstruction, external design, and the organization of transport and other flows. The master plan aims to create a comfortable urban environment and improve the quality of life for residents, ensuring the harmonious coexistence of various functional zones.

A year later, the M4 design bureau, together with the Atom architectural bureau, the Planetarium No. 1 team, and researchers from the Artel group of applied anthropologists, began active work on implementing the plan. It was important for them to understand how residents perceive their city, what they consider its beauty and ugliness, and how the identity of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is formed and expressed. Research and analysis of local residents' opinions will help identify areas for further changes and improvements in the urban environment, ultimately leading to the creation of a comfortable and attractive space for living and recreation.

In the spring and summer of 2023, anthropologists conducted in-depth and brief interviews with residents of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, including both ordinary citizens and experts in various fields. The goal of the research was to study the city's history and analyze local conflicts. An online survey was conducted in parallel, allowing anyone to share their perspective on the city. The researchers organized walks with local residents to experience Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky through their eyes. Meetings and discussions were also held in city cafes and educational institutions, contributing to a deeper understanding of local culture and public sentiment.

Based on the collected data, the architects created landscaping projects. The anthropologists, in turn, conducted an analysis and reached conclusions about the essence of the capital of the Kamchatka Territory. Their research helps understand the cultural and social aspects of the region, which in turn contributes to more effective planning and development of urban infrastructure.

How to see: how Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is seen by its residents and those visiting from the mainland

The city's main feature is its harmonious coexistence with nature. This is evident not only in the surrounding landscape but also in its architectural solutions. When constructing houses, it is necessary to take into account frequent, albeit minor, earthquakes, which influences the choice of building materials and technologies. Furthermore, when planning pedestrian routes, it is important to consider not only the distance but also the slope of the streets, which adds an additional element of complexity to getting around the city.

Nature permeates the urban landscape through picturesque views, black volcanic sand used to pave roads in winter, and the speed with which salty ocean air erodes buildings. Three volcanoes visible on the horizon are called home by locals: Avachinsky, Kozelsky, and Koryaksky. These natural symbols create a unique atmosphere for the city, emphasizing its connection to the surrounding world and lending it a distinctive character.

It's no surprise that many gazes turn beyond the city, toward nature. Competing with natural beauty, such as majestic volcanoes and the deep, steel-blue ocean, is difficult. Against this backdrop, the jumble of lines—rises and descents—and the diversity of materials and styles become especially noticeable. Everyone strives to leave their mark on the urban landscape. Finding beauty in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is not easy, but such moments do exist, and they are appreciated by those who know how to see the uniqueness in the world around them.

“One of the most memorable elements of the urban landscape, which "I observed the rusty façade of a five-story building, boarded up with iron. Lines with white laundry trailed from it, stretching toward the hill. This rusty façade, with its varied patterns against the dark blue August sky, created a truly unique picture. This spectacle became, for me, the most beautiful detail of the city. We often admire architectural masterpieces, such as Venice or other ancient structures, that blend organically into their surroundings. This natural development of the urban environment, reminiscent of a coral reef, and therein lies its beauty. This urban growth can sometimes be at odds with familiar comforts, but this is precisely its charm."

During our research, we interviewed local residents to gain a deeper understanding of their lives and culture. These conversations helped us uncover important aspects of local identity, traditions, and customs, which formed the basis for further analysis. Local residents shared their views on current issues they face and expressed hopes for the future of their region. These valuable insights provide valuable insights into the complex social and cultural dynamics of this community.

I remember a time when an architect colleague and I visited the beach at Malolagernaya Bay, which is located near the city and popular among locals. We decided to take a stroll along the surf line when the ocean retreated slightly, revealing the cliffs. On one of these cliffs, we noticed shells densely covering the ledge. My companion remarked that the view was reminiscent of the hills dotted with houses in Petropavlovsk. Perhaps this is the local identity, representing a unique combination of different environmental types in one place. This characteristic is not a disadvantage, but, on the contrary, represents potential that can be exploited with the right approach and presentation.

Marina Baiduzha is an anthropologist and co-founder of the Artel group. She actively studies cultural aspects and social interactions in modern society. With her experience and knowledge, Marina makes a significant contribution to the development of anthropological research and practice. Under her leadership, the Artel Group implements projects aimed at preserving cultural heritage and supporting local communities.

The airport in Yelizovo, which is located next to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, makes a much stronger impression than the city itself. The runway and bunker-like building create an atmosphere as if you've been transported back to the 1990s with their plaid shopping bags. The pristine hills and volcanoes you just saw from the plane window spread out all around. This contrasting scene makes arriving in Kamchatka unforgettable. Arriving from the dynamic and bustling Moscow in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, you feel how the surrounding nature slows down and brings peace. Here, amidst the majestic landscapes, a sense of something more significant and wise arises. This allows you to deepen your reflection and pay attention to the surrounding environment, striving to integrate into the landscape, perceive the aesthetics of nature, and find inspiration in its beauty. However, in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the situation is different. The urban development creates dissonance, despite its location in a complex terrain. It seems as if architecture is competing with nature: "Nature is beautiful, but I'm still going to compete with it." Unattractive buildings adorned with bright signs create the feeling of a lost competition. This contrast between nature and the urban environment emphasizes the need for harmonious coexistence, where architecture doesn't compete with, but rather complements, the beauty of the surrounding world.

Victoria Simakova is the head of the architectural department at the M4 design bureau. With extensive experience in architecture, she successfully manages a team of specialists developing innovative projects. Under her leadership, unique architectural solutions are created that harmoniously combine functionality and aesthetics. Victoria is actively involved in the implementation of complex projects, which allows the M4 bureau to occupy a leading position in the field of architectural design.

Make it brighter: what residents and

Local residents actively express their wishes regarding the city's appearance, and one of the most popular requests is brightness. However, opinions on this matter can vary greatly. Some residents believe that metal siding is the ideal solution. The vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and blue that intersect the monochromatic walls of the five-story buildings represent a design approach. This choice is driven not only by aesthetic preferences but also by the need to withstand cold ocean winds, as well as the limited availability of building materials on the peninsula. Thus, bright accents on building facades can not only improve the city's appearance but also enhance its functionality in the local climate.

Murals have become a vibrant element in the urban environment, capable of transforming gray streets and creating a unique atmosphere. These artistic works, which enliven the space, can be found in every district of the city. Since 2020, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky has hosted the annual graffiti festival "Avacha Street Art." Contest participants have the opportunity to decorate the facades of buildings, receiving an address to display their work. However, choosing an image is a difficult task: some residents prefer cats to huskies, others are against graffiti, and still others remain indifferent to murals. This diversity of opinions highlights the need to consider the interests of the local community when creating street art.

Working with color in mural design requires a careful approach. Effective murals are particularly striking when the surrounding architecture serves as a soft, neutral backdrop, as seen in countries like Iceland, Norway, and New Zealand. In these places, the background features subtle, pure, milky tones that create the perfect conditions for the artistic design to emerge. In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the situation is somewhat different. Here, the bright signs and varied color palette of the buildings create a variegated environment in which the mural stands out but fails to achieve the desired effect. While the design itself may be aesthetically pleasing, it fails to evoke the deep visual response that is possible in a more harmonious context.

Victoria Simakova is the head of the architectural department at M4 design bureau. In her role, she is responsible for developing innovative architectural solutions and project management, ensuring high-quality execution. Drawing on her many years of experience, Victoria actively implements modern technologies and approaches in architectural design, allowing M4 to remain at the forefront of its field. Her professionalism and commitment to excellence contribute to the creation of unique and functional spaces that meet modern requirements and customer expectations.

For festival participants, murals are a unique opportunity to demonstrate their skills and creative concepts, and work in conditions that are difficult to find elsewhere. This festival attracts artists from all over the world, providing them with a platform for self-expression and exchange of experiences. Participation in the creation of murals not only contributes to the development of personal style, but also allows you to interact with the environment, turning space into art.

Young people visiting, observing what may seem unattractive to us, find unique features in it and strive to interact with them. We are often ashamed of clotheslines, rusty facades and metal cladding, while visitors to the city say: “I like this facade. I want to paint on it. I want to preserve it.” However, local authorities do not understand this desire: “Are you going to leave this?” This misunderstanding will continue until we abandon the use of corrugated sheets. I do not consider this material suitable for urban architecture, except perhaps for summer cottage fences. It's important to rethink our approach to urban aesthetics and consider the voices of those who see beauty in it.

The Avacha Street Art Festival participant is an important part of the cultural event dedicated to contemporary art and street culture. The festival attracts talented artists who create unique works on the city's walls, transforming its appearance and filling the space with vibrant colors. Festival participants not only showcase their skills but also interact with local residents, inspiring them to be creative and to recognize the importance of street art. Each artist brings their own personality and style to the festival, making each piece unique and memorable. Participation in the Avacha Street Art Festival is not only an opportunity to make a name for yourself, but also a chance to become part of a dynamic and creative community that promotes the development of art in the urban environment.

Viewing a city from the outside differs significantly from perceiving it from the inside. However, there are important nuances. Tourists visiting this expensive resort often notice shortcomings and inconveniences that don't meet their expectations. At the same time, artists and creative professionals are able to capture subtle details that might go unnoticed by the average traveler. These aspects create the city's unique atmosphere and emphasize its individuality.

This year, Anya Desnitskaya's illustrated book "At the Edge of the World" was published. It tells the story of the friendship between a girl from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky and a boy from Chile. In the book's design, the author used clotheslines stretched between the balconies of neighboring five-story buildings, creating a unique visual experience and atmosphere. This work is not only about friendship, but also about the connection between cultures and how distance can be overcome through sincere relationships. The book will be interesting for both children and adults, bringing new impressions and ideas into their lives.

Bombs, Space, Hills: New Meanings about the Main Thing

Architects and anthropologists have studied a variety of views and opinions about beauty and the unacceptable in order to develop projects for the improvement of central urban areas. These historic streets include Krasintsev, Leninskaya, Nikolskaya Sopka, Kultuchnoye Ozero, and the Red Line (Tushkanova Street, 50 Years of October Avenue). A unique project has been developed for each of these locations, taking into account the specific characteristics of the specific site. If everything goes according to plan, these projects will begin to be implemented in the next few years.

When developing improvement plans, we carefully took into account the landscape features. The cross-section of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky's streets features elevation changes of up to 15–20 meters. This necessitates a large number of staircases of varying sizes. We interpreted the local hills and introduced the concept of "sopochki" (little hills)—small decorative areas planted with shrubs, adorned with beautiful stones and boulders, and illuminated. Our goal was to integrate the surrounding landscape, including the sea, hills, and mountains, into the landscaping, creating a harmonious and attractive space for residents and visitors.

Rudolf Kizelbash is a leading architect at the Atom architectural bureau. His experience and professionalism in the field of architecture contribute to the creation of unique and functional projects. At the Atom bureau, Rudolf is actively involved in the development of modern architectural solutions that harmoniously fit into the urban environment and meet modern demands. Thanks to his expertise, the bureau has established itself as a reliable partner in the implementation of complex architectural projects.

When designing intimate spaces, for example, a children's play area, we often use boulders. This decision is due to the fact that boulders are an important part of the environment. So-called "volcanic bombs" are found in cities, which not everyone knows about. Many perceive them as ordinary stones, but for locals, they are objects with history and significance. People treat them with attention and respect, ascribing special value and significance to them in the context of urban culture.

Victoria Simakova is the head of the architectural unit at the M4 design bureau. Under her leadership, the team develops innovative architectural solutions focused on contemporary trends and client needs. Victoria has extensive experience in architecture and project management, allowing her to effectively coordinate the team's work and achieve high results. Her professional qualities and creative approach contribute to the successful implementation of projects of varying complexity, ensuring high quality and aesthetic appeal of the final results.

In the design process, architects strive to harmoniously integrate natural elements into their designs and small architecture, rather than Compete with nature. This allows for the creation of more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing spaces, where natural landscapes and architectural solutions complement each other. Architects use a variety of methods to highlight the beauty of the surrounding environment, emphasizing the sustainability and functionality of their projects.

Kamchatka's cosmic landscapes, unique sense of time, and weightlessness create an atmosphere that attracts not only tourists but also researchers. This region is steeped in space history. It was the last point of contact and observation for Yuri Gagarin's flight, and space technology was tested in the village of Vulkanny. Tolbachik Volcano has become a testing site for Mars rovers due to the similarity of its soil to that on Mars.

Space themes permeate the city's culture: they are reflected in street graffiti and the names of local cafes. In the near future, if planned projects are realized, a planetarium will be built in the center of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky atop Nikolskaya Sopka, adding a new element to the region's space identity. Kamchatka is becoming not only a tourist destination but also a hub for space research and educational initiatives.

Kamchatka and space seem inextricably linked: both worlds are distant and inaccessible, yet attractive with their unique beauty. Time flows differently here, and the majestic landscapes leave neither locals nor tourists indifferent. Kamchatka's cultural environment contributes to this idea, creating a variety of stories that emphasize the connection with space. This perception becomes common to everyone who visits this amazing region, where Kamchatka becomes a symbol of cosmic magic.

Marina Baiduzha is an anthropologist and co-founder of the Artel group. She is actively engaged in the study of the cultural and social aspects of human life, making a significant contribution to the development of anthropology. As experts in their field, the members of the Artel group strive to preserve and promote unique cultural traditions and practices. Marina Baiduzha is actively involved in projects aimed at studying the interaction of various cultures and their influence on public consciousness, which makes her work important for modern society.

Architects strive to remove intrusive outdoor advertising from the urban environment, creating new public spaces and improving existing ones. If experts implement their plans, in ten years Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky will be transformed and will lose its image as a portal to the past, while remaining a unique place with a cosmic atmosphere.

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