Vildar Yusupov - about the new monument to the metro builders

For the Metro Builder's Day in October 2025, it is planned to open a monument to the “Metro Builders of Russia” in Sokolniki. Its author, sculptor Vildar Yusupov in an interview with a Metrostroevets correspondent, he spoke about the concept and stages of work on the project.

–Vildar Raisovich, tell us how the idea of creating the monument came about?

– The idea of perpetuating the contribution of metro builders to the history of Moscow has long been in the air. Two years ago, the initiators of the project invited me to develop a concept. After examining the possible location for installing the sculptural composition in Sokolniki, an initial sketch was created, which went through several modifications.

–What tasks didByou set for yourself?

– The main thing is to convey respect for the profession of metro construction, one of the most labor-intensive and significant. This is work that requires high qualifications and full dedication, and we sought to translate this into sculpture. Convey the spirit of the times, the evolution of the profession. Today, metro construction, especially in Moscow, is rapidly developing, and the monument will be a tribute to the recognition of generations of people who dedicated themselves to this noble work.

–What images and symbols are included inproject?

– In the center of the composition are two builders in a niche, symbolizing a subway tunnel. They are surrounded by petals that resemble a miner or a blooming flower. These elements symbolize not only the construction process, but also the technological progress that accompanies the construction of the metro. Petals can also be associated with tunnels that cut through the earth, connecting different parts of the city and creating new transport arteries.

–What is uniqueByour approach to depicting metro builders?

– The project pays special attention to movement as a symbol of development. The heroes - both the pioneer builder with a pick and the modern professional with a jackhammer - are shown in the active phase of work. Their figures and overall dynamic composition reflect the working rhythm of underground construction sites. It is emphasized that the construction of the metro is a creative process, it is a team of united, dedicated people.

–Who helpedet Youin your work?

– The work is being carried out in close cooperation with specialists from SMU-8 Metrostroy and its director Nikolai Sorokin. Colleagues provided historical materials, archival photos and technical information, which made it possible to achieve high accuracy of the images.

–What doesВас mean thisа work?

– Participation in such a large-scale project is an important milestone in my creative journey. This is not only an opportunity to show respect for the metro construction profession, but also a chance to create a monumental structure that will last for centuries.

–What do you thinkВы считаете,will Muscovites like the sculpture?

- Of course. The place itself - Sokolniki - is historical for metro builders, since domestic metro construction began here in 1931. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the opening of the first line of the Moscow metro, and in 2026 the metro construction industry will celebrate its 95th anniversary. The monument to “Russian Metro Builders” will immortalize the work of metro builders and their enormous contribution to the development of our city. Muscovites and guests of the capital who use the metro every day should know their heroes!