Fire, water, and Klodt's repetition were delivered by Anatoliy Yashkevich.
In the heart of Khabarovsk, Russia, stands a figure who has left an indelible mark on the city's landscape. Anatoly Pavlovich Yaskovich, an Honorary Citizen, is a renowned artist whose works adorn the city's streets and institutions.
Born into a family with deep roots in the "Daldizel" plant, Yaskovich's father once stood guard at the Amur station, while his parents worked at the plant itself. It was here that Yaskovich began his own journey, starting as a young apprentice.
At the age of 25, Yaskovich was appointed as a master at the "Daldizel" plant, a testament to his early promise and dedication. His love for artistic casting was kindled at the plant, as he began creating souvenirs that would later become the foundation of his artistic career.
Yaskovich's contributions to the "Daldizel" plant extend beyond his role as a master craftsman. He served as a deputy director of production, and his leadership and creativity were instrumental in the plant's success. In recognition of his services, he was one of the 14 individuals honoured on the plant's alley of fame.
Throughout his career, Yaskovich has created numerous fine works, many of which can be found in Khabarovsk. Among his most notable creations are a bronze footballer from 1960, a replica of the Tsar Cannon, and a candlestick featuring a bear climbing a tree. His works are so ubiquitous that there are 240 sculptures similar to his creations on the Amur Bridge.
Yaskovich's impact extends beyond Khabarovsk, as he has been recognised with the Order of Mao Zedong. This prestigious award is a testament to his influence and the global reach of his art.
Despite turning 90, Yaskovich maintains a remarkable level of productivity. He attributes this to a lifelong dedication to sports, a testament to the power of physical activity in maintaining mental clarity and vitality. Yaskovich continues to participate in the "Russian Ski Race," demonstrating his enduring passion for sports.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Yaskovich is a professor at the Far Eastern Federal University, nurturing the talents of many students, including Vitaly Kalinin, who has reached the level of a teacher.
As we celebrate the life and works of Anatoly Pavlovich Yaskovich, it is clear that his impact on Khabarovsk and beyond will continue to be felt for generations to come. Despite a lack of widely available detailed biographies, his contributions speak for themselves, and his legacy as a master craftsman, teacher, and community leader is secure.
Anatoly Pavlovich Yaskovich's influence extends beyond local art and can be seen in various lifestyle aspects, resonating with the home-and-garden sector through the 240 sculptures similar to his creations adorning the Amur Bridge. His dedication to sports, present in his active participation in the "Russian Ski Race," also speaks to his contributions in the sports domain.
