The symbol of the coming year was once again installed in the lobby of the SPbGASU Faculty of Architecture. The model was created by students of the Department of Architectural Environment Design under the supervision of associate professor Konstantin Kolodin. We asked Konstantin Ivanovich what this composition symbolizes, what its dimensions are and what it is made of.

– In my opinion, we should not count the amount of material used and its dimensions, but those moments of happiness that our work will bring to people. Happiness is measured by these moments and minutes, and not by square meters and kilograms. When I am asked in the store how many sweets to weigh, I do not know what to answer. Three hundred grams, four hundred or maybe five hundred? The little prince said that all adults love numbers. Then I am not an adult, he answered.

Konstantin Ivanovich involves students in creating the symbol every year. This year there were fewer enthusiasts. The teacher attributes this to a lack of motivation. If it were possible to get a grade or credit for participating in the project, more students would be interested.

– What we make teaches creativity. After all, we are in a university that produces creative people, and this needs to be taught. We left the wings of last year's dragon and hung them on the wall. This is another symbol for our students to think and dream. To be able to get off the ground and rise above our everyday reality.

The snake that wraps around three towers with clocks by Salvador Dali attracts the attention of not only those who study or work at SPbGASU, but also passers-by.

– Last year, when we were dismantling the dragon, the symbol of 2024, a woman knocked on the window and said: "Thank you very much, I came from the Petrograd side, brought the children so that they could look at and take a picture of your dragon." This is worth a lot. This is what it is worth creating. We create something that people like, something that can bring joy. This is not just a snake - it is a symbol of infinity. It crawls through space and time. In the process of work, we changed three of its heads. The first head was smiling, but I realized that a snake cannot smile. It is wise, fair, big and reminds us of the transience of time. I think that its open mouth is not threatening... Maybe it is yawning? Also possible.

Last summer, Konstantin Kolodin became a laureate of the International Competition "ArchiGraphics". Three books are being written. An exhibition of his works is planned for February at SPbGASU.

– Some people don't understand why I do this. I think it's because I can and want to do it. And what I can, I do. What has already been done, I give to everyone. Happy New Year 2025 to everyone!