 Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. This segment shows a yellow-orange cat perched comfortably on a tree branch. The surrounding trees are depicted with vertical, textured strokes, suggesting a dense birch or pine forest typical of the Karelian Isthmus. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. This section features a large bear with a cub, rendered in a sketch-like style with soft shading. The bears are set against a background of rolling green hills and a cloudy sky, evoking a gentle, fairytale forest atmosphere. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Graffiti series, located on the concrete retaining wall separating the beach from the promenade along the Gulf of Finland (near the Sestroretsk Resort or "Kurort" area) which is a fanciful and nostalgic mural composition featuring whimsical animals and nature motifs. A distinct horizontal band runs across part of the mural, depicting a long, grey commuter train (possibly an elektrichka) traveling through a green landscape. This element likely references the vital railway connection between St. Petersburg and the resort towns of the Kurortny District, a familiar sight for locals and visitors. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Serene autumn scene at Laskovy Beach (Russian: Laskovyy Plyazh) in the settlement of Solnechnoe, located on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Saint Petersburg. Laskovy Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Kurortny District of Saint Petersburg. The name "Laskovy" translates to "Affectionate" or "Tender," while the settlement name, Solnechnoe, means "Sunny". This area has a rich history as a summer resort destination; formerly known as the Finnish village of Ollila, it became a hub for St. Petersburg s intelligentsia and dacha owners in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The image shows a trio of birch trees with vibrant yellow and orange leaves, which is characteristic of the "Golden Autumn" season in the Leningrad Region during early-to-mid October. The golden leaves contrast strikingly with the blue sky and the dark blue waters of the Gulf. The large white concrete sphere on the sand is a landscaping feature. Russia, October 9, 2025  A vibrant and slightly gritty scene in a courtyard or passage off Viru Street (Viru 13), revealing a hidden side of Tallinn s Old Town nightlife. The wall is covered in colorful, chaotic graffiti tags (e.g., "PASR," "OPG," "SRN"), contrasting with the historic surroundings. The abstract blue and white forms at the bottom right resemble stylized waves or bubbles. This heavy tagging is typical of the semi-hidden courtyards in this area that house alternative bars and clubs. Through the window on the right, you can see the warm interior of a bar. Bottles of alcohol are lined up on shelves, and the lighting suggests a cozy, active atmosphere inside. This juxtaposition--the rough, cold exterior wall versus the inviting, warm interior--encapsulates the "hidden bar" culture of Tallinn. While Viru Street itself is a main tourist artery known for flower stalls and souvenir shops, the courtyards behind the facades (like at Viru 13/15) often host rooftop bars like A"rkel or speakeasy-style venues. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Expansive view looking north-northwest from the southern end of the Sestroretsk coastline towards the Sestroretsk Resort (Kurort) and, further in the distance, the settlement of Solnechnoe (Sunny). The coastline curves gently inward. This specific geography near Sestroretsk causes the eastward littoral drift (sand movement) to weaken, resulting in a very wide, accretional beach (up to 140 meters wide) known for its fine sand and extensive dunes. The foreground shows a sandy spit or sandbar created by the outflow of water. The shallow water here creates the wide, calm pools seen in the foreground, which are popular with birds. Sestroretsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Orange graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Orange-yellow cap of tubercle scalycap mushrooms (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Geometrical patterns on graffiti on a beach wall near Kurort, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, July 8, 2016  Some smooth white crust fungus on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Some smooth white corticioid fungus on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Some smooth grey-white corticioid mushroom on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Dynamic display of autumn color and texture in Upper Park. The image highlights a grove of white-barked trees--likely birch or aspen--whose bright trunks are textured with patches of green moss and lichen. These vertical lines contrast beautifully with the chaotic, horizontal spread of the crimson undergrowth (likely wild shrubs like dogwood). Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Golden-yellow mushrooms tubercle scalycap (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Gills and curved yellow stems of tubercle scalycap mushrooms (Pholiota tuberculosa) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Revealing the multinational and irregular composition of the Russian forces, featuring the flag of Uzbekistan prominently displayed alongside the black "Assault Troops" banner and the Russian tricolor. In the foreground, the grave of Aleksandr Borisovich Vasiliev (1973-2025), a 52-year-old soldier, is marked by a framed photograph of him in combat gear standing in a field, humanizing the older demographic of recent casualties. The scene captures the raw, crowded nature of the "initial stage" of burial, with fresh earthen mounds and a chaotic mix of personal and military symbols extending into the background. "Alley of Heroes" at Cemetery of the Victims of January 9, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Creamy-white discs of fungus Hymenoscyphus monticola (Phaeohelotium monticola)(?) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Gulf of Finland coastline, with shallow waters and glacial boulders. Behind the rocky beach, there is a zone of Common Reed (Phragmites australis), which is ubiquitous along the Neva Bay coast. The trees include Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)--the tall conifer with orange bark on the right--and Black Alder or Birch, which are typical for these damp, sandy soils. The pines here are often twisted by the strong westerly winds. Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  Metal bridge located near the Small Caprice (Malyi Kapriz) in Catherine Park. It spans the water channel connecting the Upper Ponds (Verkhnie Prudki) with the Longitudinal Pond (Prodolny Prud). The bridge is a graceful, single-span metal structure with a simple but elegant wrought-iron railing featuring gilded rosette details. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Gulf of Finland coastline, with a zone of Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  Flattened, spoon-shaped or fan-like fruit bodies with a bright egg-yellow to creamy-yellow color of Roothole rosette mushrooms (Stereopsis vitellina) mushrooms extracted from peat walls of a burrow near a road under pines in Petyayarvi, north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 5, 2025  Close-up of flattened, spoon-shaped or fan-like fruit bodies with a bright egg-yellow to creamy-yellow color of Roothole rosette mushrooms (Stereopsis vitellina) mushrooms extracted from peat walls of a burrow near a road under pines in Petyayarvi, north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 5, 2025  Toothed cup fungus (Tarzetta cupularis) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Wood hedgehog mushrooms (Hydnum repandum) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a rotting oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Anise mazegill mushroom (Gloeophyllum odoratum) on a stump in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Underside of anise mazegill mushroom (Gloeophyllum odoratum) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Lemon disco fungus (Bisporella citrina) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Close-up of hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a rotting oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Common mazegill mushrooms (Cerioporus mollis) on a stick in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hydnoid mushroom Dentipellis fragilis on a lower side of an old fallen oak in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Texture of corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Corticioid mushroom Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Gulf of Finland and a beach in Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  "Alley of Heroes," a section of the cemetery dedicated to Russian soldiers killed in the war in Ukraine. In the foreground stands a permanent black granite monument featuring a detailed engraving of a soldier in combat gear with the "Z" insignia and a stoic epitaph reading, "Having given everything, I will not rise from the dust... I, having killed the fear within myself, fought". The background reveals rows of additional graves densely adorned with wreaths and flags representing various military branches (including the VDV and Naval Infantry) and private military contractors, illustrating the ongoing scale and diverse composition of the casualties. Cemetery of the Victims of January 9, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Immature yellowleg bonnet mushrooms (Mycena epipterygia) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Young yellowleg bonnet mushrooms (Mycena epipterygia) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Crust fungus Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce without bark in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Close-up of corticioid fungus Phlebia centrifuga on a thick fallen spruce without bark in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Tiny immature :0438rick tuft mushrooms (Hypholoma lateritium) on rotting wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Underside of resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Corticioid fungus Hyphodontia barba-jovis(?) with fringed tips of the teeth on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Slender coral mushrooms (Ramariopsis subtilis) in a semi-dry state in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Stony beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 15, 2017  Presence of a dead gull on a beach in the Gulf of Finland near Solnechnoe, that is most likely linked to the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak, specifically the H5N1 strain, which has devastated wild bird populations in the Baltic region throughout 2023-2025. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Dark-brown caps of resinous polypore mushrooms (Ischnoderma resinosum) on a fallen deciduous tree in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Boulders on a beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Stony beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Granite stones on a beach of Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 22, 2017  Ascomycete fungus Hymenoscyphus monticola (Phaeohelotium monticola) (or a very close cryptic sibling in that clade) on wood in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Hypomyces species (possibly Hypomyces rosellus or similar) parasitizing common mazegill mushrooms (Cerioporus mollis) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Bright yellow color of an elm tree in Botanic Gardens of Komarov Botanical Institute. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 26, 2016  Gothic Gate (Goticheskie Vorota) in the landscape section of Catherine Park. Erected in 1778, the gate was designed by the architect Yury Felten (Georg Friedrich Veldten). The design mimics a Gothic cathedral portal, featuring slender columns that branch into pointed arches with intricate "lace-like" tracery. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Reddish-brown crust fungus Hymenochaetopsis tabacina (syn. Pseudochaete tabacina, currently often treated as Hydnoporia tabacina) on a fallen oak(?) in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Lisiy Nos. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 7, 2025  Rebuilding of the Forest Building (Russian: Lesnoy Korpus) in a major reconstruction project at the historic Sestroretsk Resort (Sestroretsky Kurort). The original Sestroretsk Resort was a famous health spa complex founded in 1898 by engineer Peter Avenarius. It featured several grand wooden structures, including a massive Kursaal (concert hall), a mud bath facility, and the Forest Building. The resort was a hub for St. Petersburg s elite and intelligentsia in the early 20th century. The original Forest Building was a beautiful wooden hotel and sanatorium building constructed in the early 1900s. It was a key part of the ensemble but was destroyed during World War II. The new structure faithfully replicates the "Northern Art Nouveau" style of the original resort architecture, characterized by its complex roofline, spires, towers, and wooden detailing that harmonizes with the surrounding pine forest and dunes. The exterior appears nearly complete, showing the elaborate wooden facade, the large central dome, and the corner towers with their needle-like spires. The scaffolding indicates that finishing work is still in progress. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Narrow, cobblestone alley is Va"ike-Karja Street (Va"ike-Karja ta"nav) at the intersection with Sauna Street, a spot known for its vibrant nightlife. The black sign reading "FRANK" visible down the street on the right marks the entrance to FRANK Bistro & Cocktail Bar. This popular venue, located on the corner, is known for its New York-style interior and a hidden underground cocktail lounge ("Frank Underground"). The wall on the immediate right is heavily tagged with graffiti (visible tags include "FRANK" and other abstract designs), reflecting the street s gritty, urban character typical of the "Bermuda Triangle" nightlife district. The view looks down the narrow passage towards the intersection where Va"ike-Karja meets Sauna Street. The cobblestones are well-worn, and the narrowness of the street amplifies the intimate, medieval feel, despite the modern graffiti and bar signs. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Monochromatic texture, moving away from high contrast to explore the subtle variations within a single color range. The scene is dominated by a spectrum of yellows, from the pale ochre of the birch leaves to the deep amber of the maples, creating a "wall of gold" that feels immersive and enclosing. The overlapping layers of foliage--dense understory merging into the mid-canopy--eliminate the sky, focusing the viewer entirely on the intricate, lace-like pattern of the leaves against the dark vertical trunks. The reflection in the water breaks these details into impressionistic strokes, blurring the line between the real trees and their mirrored image, much like a watercolor painting where forms dissolve into light and color. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Golden, slimy scalycap mushrooms Pholiota limonella in a state nature reserve "North Shore of Neva Gulf" (Zakaznik Severnoe Poberezhye Nevskoy Guby) on the northern coast of the Gulf of Finland, near Olgino. Saint Petersburg, Russia, September 26, 2025  White Island of Gulf of Finland from Tarkhovsky Mys (extremity) in Tarkhovka near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 15, 2017  A wooden gate in the wall of a building at Uus 16/1. The gate is covered in layers of graffiti. The most prominent feature is the word "TOY" spray-painted in red over a black-and-white heart symbol. In graffiti culture, the term "toy" is a derogatory slur used to describe an inexperienced or unskilled writer, or someone who disrespects the unwritten rules of the scene (e.g., painting over better work). The underlying black-and-white geometric heart appears to be a stencil or a specific artist s tag that has been "crossed out" (dissed) by another writer using the red paint. This layering tells a story of conflict or rivalry within the local street art community. The gate and the yellow stucco wall are covered in various other tags ("PACollege Station, Texas," "ATAS," "NGR"), typical of the tagging that plagues less-surveilled streets in the Old Town like Uus Street. This gate likely leads to a private courtyard or a utility area behind the residential buildings on Uus Street. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Red Cascade or Turkish Cascade in Catherine Park. The Red Cascade is a dam that regulates the water level between the Upper Ponds and the Great Pond. The two "towers" flanking the crossing are designed in the Gothic style, featuring red brick walls with white limestone details, pointed arches, and niche windows. It was built in the 1780s by the engineer Ivan Gerard, likely based on designs by the architect Vasily Neelov. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Slime mold Trichia decipiens in its immature (developing) stage. The vibrant bright orange to salmon-pink "beads" visible are the developing fruiting bodies (sporangia). Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  A grove in Oranienbaum Park featuring a mix of historic oak and linden trees, which are key elements of the Upper Park s landscape design. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Leuchtenberg Palace, designed by architect Andrei Stackenschneider and completed in 1842. The facade reflects the Late Classicism style (resembling a Roman villa), characterized by a grand portico with Corinthian columns, symmetrical window arrangements, and a pediment that gives the structure a noble, temple-like appearance. The palace s yellow stucco walls show signs of weathering and peeling paint, contributing to the estate s romantic, slightly melancholic atmosphere of a "forgotten" royal residence. The palace is situated on a terrace overlooking the Gulf of Finland, with its color palette harmonizing with the surrounding golden autumn foliage, reinforcing the seamless blend of architecture and nature intended by its designers. Sergievka Park, Old Peterhof, west from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 13, 2025  Panoramic view from the Tarkhovka shoreline that looks north-west across the Sestroretsky Razliv (Lake Sestroretsk) toward the city of Sestroretsk. This view captures the dual nature of Sestroretsk: a historic resort town with natural beauty (the lake, reeds, and stones) juxtaposed with modern urban infrastructure (heating plant and high-rise housing). "Three Chimneys" (Center): The most prominent industrial feature is the cluster of three tall red-and-white striped chimneys. These belong to the Sestroretsk District Heating Plant (part of the city s thermal infrastructure). Residential Towers (Left of Chimneys): The tall, beige-and-orange brick apartment buildings are part of the modern residential developments in Sestroretsk, likely along Tokarevskaya Street or the Razliv microdistrict. Church of Peter and Paul (Far Right): On the far right horizon. This is a modern church (consecrated in 2009) built in memory of the Russian submariners. "Pyramid" Building (Far Left): On the far left, there is a distinctive white building with a stepped, pyramid-like shape. This is likely the "Eden" (Edem) residential complex or a similar luxury apartment block, which is known for its terraced architecture. Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  Baroque stone capital (likely from the dismantled Monbijou Pavilion) featuring reliefs of putti (cherubs), now displayed as a decorative artifact at the entrance of the Pensioner Stable in Alexander Park. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo), south from Saint Petersburg, Russia, September 21, 2025  "Bulldozing" trails left by a freshwater mussel of the family Unionidae, most probably the Duck Mussel (Anodonta anatina) or the Painter s Mussel (Unio pictorum) on a beach near Kurort. The shell partially visible at the end of the trail is large, oval, and relatively smooth with a dark, brownish-yellow periostracum (outer skin). Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  View from the Small Chinese Bridge looks down the Krestovy Canal in the opposite direction from the Cross Bridge. The photo captures the linear vista of the canal, flanked by an avenue of mature maple trees displaying vibrant autumn colors. The foreground highlights the Small Chinese Bridge s decorative iron railing, featuring a geometric lattice pattern with gilded rosettes, cast in 1786. This section of the canal borders the regular "New Garden" area, leading toward the Chinese Village. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Devil s Bridge (Chertov Most), also known as the Cascade, located near the Upper Ponds in Catherine Park. It is constructed from rough-hewn limestone and granite blocks (tufa) to resemble a natural rock formation or an ancient grotto. The "bridge" actually functions as a decorative cascade or dam between the ponds. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Decorative vase, located in the parterre of the park near the Main Building of the Forestry University, a concrete copy of a 19th-century original. The original vase was created in the 1860s by the famous sculptor David Jensen (1816-1902). The original work was carved from unpolished granite. Today s version is a concrete replica installed in the 1970s. The central motif depicts putti (cherubs), which are playful, chubby male children often found in classical art. The putti appear to be engaged in a playful struggle with a goat, a common allegorical theme in baroque and neoclassical art often representing the abundance of nature or Bacchic festivities. This theme fits well with the park s history as a place of botanical study and appreciation of nature. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  A bronze copy of the famous ancient Greek group "Laocoo"n and His Sons" near the Chinese Palace. The dynamic composition depicts the Trojan priest Laocoo"n and his two sons in their agonizing death struggle against sea serpents sent by the gods (usually attributed to Athena or Poseidon) as punishment for warning the Trojans about the wooden horse. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Spores (in KOH, spore print orange) of spectacular rustgill mushrooms (Gymnopilus junonius) collected earlier 10/9/2025 in Dubki Park, Sestroretsk near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 19, 2025  View of Gulf of Finland from Dybki Park in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Sankt Petersburg. Russia, October 2, 2000  Gulf of Finland in Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  Gulf of Finland near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 20, 2012  A fort in Gulf of Finland near Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  Gulf of Finland near Sestroretsk, north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, June 26, 2003  Gulf of Finland between Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  View of Pikk Street (Pikk ta"nav), one of the most architecturally diverse streets in Tallinn s Old Town. The spectacular grey Art Nouveau building on the right (with the corner turret) is a masterpiece designed by architect Jacques Rosenbaum in 1910. It is famous for its fantastical facade featuring two large dragons and Egyptian-inspired motifs. Today, the ground floor houses the Draakoni Gallery. On the left side of the street (the red and grey facade), one can see the St. Canute s Guild Hall (Kanuti Gildi Saal). Originally built in the 13th century and remodeled in the 19th century with Tudor-style windows and statues of St. Canute and Martin Luther on the facade. It now serves as a contemporary performing arts center. The yellow building on the immediate right foreground is Pikk 22, which houses the Estonian Handicraft House (Eesti Ka"sito"o" Maja). This shop is a go-to place for authentic Estonian folk art and crafts. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  View of Gulf of Finland and a fort built by Peter the Great in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Sankt Petersburg. Russia, October 2, 2000  Remains of a Finnish hydroelectric power plant on the Volchya River (formerly Saijanjoki), located near the village of Peta"ja"rvi (now Petrovskoye) in the Leningrad Region. The dam structure, including the concrete pillars and spillway, is still standing, creating a scenic waterfall that is a popular tourist stop on the Vyaryamyanselka Ridge eco-trail. Petyayarvi north from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 5, 2025  Bolders in Gulf of Finland in Tarkhovka near Sestroretsk. West from Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 15, 2017  Dunes and Gulf of Finland between Solnechnoe and Sestroretsk at windy day. Near Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 1, 2001  Icy Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Spiral trail left by a freshwater mussel on a beach near Kurort which is a specific behavioral trace often associated with disorientation or stress. When these simple organisms lack a strong environmental cue (like a clear water current to guide them), their movement becomes less directional. Without a "current signal" to orient against (rheotaxis), their left/right muscular asymmetry can cause them to drift continually to one side, resulting in a tightening spiral. This behavior is sometimes colloquially called a "death spiral," though that is a dramatic term. It often occurs when a mussel is stranded in shallow water or exposed sediment and is desperately trying to find deeper water or a suitable substrate to burrow into. The spiral indicates the mussel has been moving for a sustained period without success, expending significant energy. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Katalnaya Gorka Pavilion (Sliding Hill Pavilion), a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture located in the Upper Park of Oranienbaum. Designed by Antonio Rinaldi, this 33-meter-high pavilion is a striking blend of Baroque and early Classicism. Its festive, light-blue and white facade, tiered "wedding-cake" shape, and crowning bell-shaped dome make it resemble a lighthouse rising above the park s trees. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Spores (spore print white) of yellowleg bonnet mushrooms (Mycena epipterygia) collected earlier 10/3/2025 in Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 19, 2025  The "permanent stage" of memorialization, featuring a row of polished black granite monuments for soldiers such as Andrey Nikolaevich Atlanov (1977-2024) and Danila Denisovich Shutov (2001-2024), a 23-year-old whose age underscores the ongoing loss of young lives. The monuments display diverse portrait styles--ranging from formal military engravings to casual color photos--and are flanked by flags including the VDV (Airborne Forces) banner with the motto "Nobody, but us," reflecting both individual identity and collective unit pride. The orderly arrangement of these finished graves, complete with granite curbs and gravel, stands in contrast to the chaotic temporary sections seen in other places, illustrating the gradual formalization of the war s toll. "Alley of Heroes" at Cemetery of the Victims of January 9, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Gulf of Finland and Sestroretsk from a spit in Tarkhovka Park, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, August 2, 2024  Ice crystals in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Boats in Gulf of Finland in Sestroretsk, 15 miles north-west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, September 8, 2007  This section of the protest installation outside the Russian Embassy on Pikk Street features striking posters that use language and graphic design to convey urgent anti-war messages. The black banner in the center features stylized white text that mimics the sound or urgency of a warning siren. The Ukrainian text translates to "Air raid alert" (:041f:043e:0432:0456:0442:0440:044f:043d:0430 :0442:0440:0438:0432:043e:0433:0430), followed by the command "KILL" in large red letters. This likely references the constant threat of bombardment facing Ukrainian civilians and calls for defensive action against the aggressors. The poster on the right, designed with yellow and blue text on a white background, carries a message in English: "And you thought that war is simple?" with the word "UKRAINE" stylized in the center. It challenges the viewer to confront the complexities and brutality of the conflict. To the left, there is a collage of photos showing the devastation of Ukrainian cities, including bombed-out residential buildings (likely Mariupol or Kharkiv), serving as visual evidence of war crimes. While partially obscured, other signs in this installation series often include direct messages to Vladimir Putin, such as the famous slogan "Follow your leader" (referencing Hitler s suicide in a bunker), which has been a recurring theme in protests here. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Accumulation of melting ice in Gulf of Finland near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Melting ice in Gulf of Finland near a coast guard station in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Melting ice field in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017  Broken ice crystals in Gulf of Finland near near Dubki Park in Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, April 11, 2017 |
