Soviet Seasons

When we think of Siberia, it’s almost a concept rather than a place – what is it really like? Russian photographer Arseniy Kotov's first photography book "Soviet Cities" takes readers on a grand tour. From monumental architecture, urban planning and urban landscapes, every page revealed is a Russia we have never known. As a continuation of the series, "Soviet Seasons" turns its attention to the mysterious landscape of the post-Soviet Union, traversing remote areas that are difficult to reach in four seasons of the year: Siberia in winter, the Caucasus in summer, central Russia in spring, and Ukraine in autumn.

"From snow-capped Siberia in winter to the Caucasus Mountains in summer, these photos show how once powerful, utopian landscapes have been shaped by the importance of nature," said Kotov.

The photographer focused on the most populous industrial cities on the Trans-Siberian Railway, such as Novosibirsk, Omsk, Krasnoyarsk, Bratsk and Angarsk. These places will not have the best examples of architecture, but nevertheless have a unique look in the extreme seasonal changes due to the lifestyle and character of the locals, as well as the surreal combination of architecture and wild natural landscapes.

Compared to places like Siberia or the Urals, the Caucasus has an incredible history. "This place was historically a crossroads of a country with high-altitude valleys and canyons, and was the site of many historic battles. Today, the city is filled with Soviet-style high-rises and, unusually, the same area also has huge Lush forested mountains - you can see them everywhere outside the city." As a hiking and mountaineering enthusiast, Kotov travels to different places in the Caucasus Mountains every summer, and when he chooses a shooting location, not only It’s about looking at the natural beauty and looking for what makes a city or village unique. “I like this kind of photography very much.”