THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE SOVIET BUS STOP
Relics Of The USSR In Modern Central Asia
Public displays of art played an important role in the soviet propaganda machine. From towering statues to sparkling mosaics, the message of the party was disseminated to the people. Bountiful farmers, patriotic workers, cosmonauts, scientists and beaming youths all stand alongside the stereotypical emblems of the state: the red star and the hammer and sickle. I’ve long had an interest in these art forms and their functions, studying Soviet posters, statues, murals and even porcelain in my university days. But one curious manifestation had evaded me until recently. The Soviet bus stop.
I love the Soviet Bus Stop book, and I would gladly do a tour entirely based on spotting them. I believe there s a second volume out too for Russia!
That’s a tour we could get on board with! Haven’t got Volume II yet but it looks great too. Hope to spot many more soon!
Having lived in Armenia for 6 years (and Moldova for a couple) I loved your photos of these fabulous Soviet bus stops! I wish now I had paid more attention to the bus stops, but I did end up with a collection of pictures of former soviet statues. I do have one photo of an Armenian bus stop, but can’t share it in comments. PS: I understand your obsession 😉
I bet that’s a great photo collection! From photos I’ve seen, Armenian Soviet bus stops look amazing – lots of concrete and interesting shapes. So amazing that we’re planning a trip there this year ?. Well, for the wonderful nature and hiking too. Let us know if you have some tips or favourite places we should go in Armenia! Kim