Unveiling the Bust of Architect Oleh Petrov
Recently, the architectural community, students, and faculty of the SEI PSACEA of Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies gathered in the foyer of the main building to honor a man whose name is inseparably linked with the history of Dnipro and Prydniprovia — Oleh Borysovych Petrov. On the occasion of the 110th anniversary of his birth, a bust of the outstanding architect was solemnly unveiled at the academy.
This event became possible thanks to the talent and dedication of Dmytro Trubchaninov, a graduate of the Architectural Faculty of SEI PSACEA. It was he, with the support of senior lecturers S.I. Podolinnyi and Yu.O. Zobenko, who created this work of art. Dmytro managed to capture the image of the Master, considered the founder of the Dnipro architectural school, immortalizing his vitality and professionalism in sculpture. The talent and craftsmanship of the young sculptor evoke heartfelt gratitude and admiration from the entire architectural community.
“This event is not just a tribute. It reminds us of the importance of memory and that great people, even when their names are briefly forgotten, deserve to be brought back from obscurity,” emphasized Oleksandr Kharlan, Dean of the Architectural Faculty.
At the site of the bust, the best students of the faculty received awards, “Petrov’s Record 2024.”
Thanks to the efforts of the academy’s leadership, the city’s architectural community, and the support of the city council, Oleh Petrov’s name was recently immortalized in the naming of the street where the SEI PSACEA buildings are located. The former Chernyshevskogo Street is now known as Arkhitektora Oleha Petrova Street.
Petrov’s architectural legacy includes sturdy, harmonious structures that continue to beautify the city. Squares, residential buildings, and administrative facilities — all these are part of his heritage, created with love for Dnipro. His projects embody an era and an architectural style, remaining relevant to this day.
This bust symbolizes the revival of memory, a tribute to the past, and inspiration for the future. Through such events, we not only honor great individuals but also strengthen our historical identity. Special thanks go to everyone involved in the event, especially to the talented Dmytro Trubchaninov, whose artistic vision added a bright page to the history of the academy and the city!
More photos are available via the link.
OUR REFERENCE
Among the most significant and iconic projects of Oleh Borysovych Petrov:
- The square ensemble in front of the Pivdennyi Machine-Building Plant (1950s): This architectural solution includes two residential buildings with towers and the plant’s administrative building. Completed in 1958, the square became one of the brightest examples of Stalinist Empire style.
- Dnipro’s main square (formerly Lenin Square, now Heroes of Maidan Square) (1956–1963). Petrov co-authored the reconstruction project for the square, creating two side buildings that seamlessly fit the ensemble. Their monumentality and simplicity highlight the spirit of the era.
- A residential building at 55 Dmytro Yavornytskoho Avenue (formerly Karla Marksa Avenue) (1953–1955). This large residential complex, with rich decorative elements and monumental statues, resembles a palace and has become a symbol of its architectural era.
- The administrative building of the Construction College (1950s, 29 Gogol Street). Now home to the Dnipro Regional Institute of Public Administration. The building is a vivid example of period architecture, combining functionality and aesthetics.
- The summer theater with 1,100 seats in Hloba Park (then Chkalov Park, 1978). This unique structure was built on an island in the middle of a lake, a beloved spot for family leisure in the city.
- The main building of SEI PSACEA (formerly Dnipropetrovsk Civil Engineering Institute) (1970). Known as the “glass building,” it became one of the academy’s architectural symbols. It reflects the functional approach of its time while remaining attractive and stylish.
These projects showcase the breadth of Oleh Borysovych Petrov’s talent — from monumental to functional architecture — inspiring and admired even today.