Plans are underway in Kislovodsk to install twelve Cheburashka sculptures, signaling a new public art initiative tied to the city’s cultural landscape. The project is framed as a municipal effort, with official channels mentioning a procurement process for the sculpture works and a target height of up to 1.5 meters for each monument. The move has drawn attention from residents and regional observers as part of the city’s ongoing development of its public spaces.
Local authorities indicated that portions of the Cheburashka story have historical resonance with Kislovodsk, noting that elements inspired by the beloved film were filmed in the city. In statements from the mayor’s office, the city received appreciation from the Mosfilm studio for the support provided during production. This acknowledgment underscores the connection between Kislovodsk and the broader film industry, highlighting how cinema has left a tangible mark on the urban environment.
Former Kislovodsk mayor Evgeny Moiseev had announced that, in time, a statue of Cheburashka would be placed on Karl Marx Street, a location that featured in one of the film’s scenes. The announcement sparked a mixed reaction among residents, with some expressing enthusiasm for a new cultural landmark, while others questioned the placement of a cartoon character within the city’s historical and social fabric. The dialogue reflects a community weighing nostalgia and identity against the practicality and symbolism of public art.
As the project advances, observers are watching how the ensemble of statues will interact with Kislovodsk’s streetscape, tourism potential, and daily life. The plan to deploy twelve figures aims to create a cohesive narrative that celebrates childhood memories and the city’s cinematic ties while broadening the cultural offerings that residents and visitors can experience. The unfolding process is likely to involve further municipal updates, community input, and ongoing collaboration with cultural institutions to ensure the installation enriches the urban environment without disrupting existing activities.
Overall, the Cheburashka monument initiative in Kislovodsk illustrates a growing trend in which cities integrate iconic characters into public spaces to foster cultural engagement and tourism. The outcome will depend on how well the sculptures resonate with the public, how they are placed within the urban grid, and how transparently the city manages the procurement and installation phases. Support from film studios and the broader entertainment community further anchors the project in regional cultural diplomacy, signaling that Kislovodsk aims to solidify its place as a vibrant hub for art, film heritage, and local history.