Phil Roubin, Pride. Trocadero Art Space

Vladimir is an 82-year-old Russian migrant living in Melbourne whose life and experiences are a melting pot of cultures. Vladimir’s ‘collections’; items found lying roadside on his walks, are laid out in an arresting testament to his pride. A Russian Red Star flanked by war medals hangs alongside small trinkets. Clipped magazine people, such as the bodybuilder and Kevin Rudd mingle with faded portraits from his
birth country.

Notions of juxtaposition and presentation extend to his series of tattoos, including portraits of Stalin and Lenin on his right breast, and his tribute to the hibernating turtle he buried alive as a child. Arranged with care and consideration, items are presented as in a museum or gallery, open by appointment only for those closest to him.