In Yekaterinburg, an art installation dedicated to singer SHAMAN, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, and Ekaterina Mizulina, the head of the Safe Internet League, was vandalized shortly after its unveiling. The installation, which featured a heart with the inscription "Love. Create families" and allowed the figures to be moved closer together for a kiss, was first noticed by the public on March 13, 2025. Just days before, on March 9, SHAMAN had publicly announced their relationship during a concert in Moscow.
The installation was designed by young photographers inspired by SHAMAN and Mizulina's joint appearance at the concert program "You are Mine." It aimed to promote love and family creation, a sentiment reflected in its design. However, the art piece was brutally destroyed, with reports indicating that parts of the figures were torn off and the metal frame was broken down for disposal. According to local media reports, the cardboard representation of SHAMAN was left without an arm and a portion of his head, while Mizulina’s figure also suffered similar damage, losing a nose and an arm.
Photos of the vandalized installation surfaced on social media, sparking a wave of reactions. Local blogger Alexey Shakhov humorously commented on the damage, suggesting that SHAMAN, depicted as kneeling in front of Mizulina, may have "sinned" or simply couldn't handle the situation. He joked, "On your knees, SHAMAN! You must have done something wrong. Or maybe you just couldn't take it and left?" This lighthearted take contrasted sharply with the underlying seriousness of the vandalism.
The incident has drawn attention not only for its artistic implications but also for the relationship dynamics between SHAMAN and Mizulina, who is known for her controversial stance on various artists. This duality has made their relationship a subject of public fascination and speculation. Mizulina, who has faced criticism for her previous actions against artists, has now found herself in the spotlight for her romantic involvement with SHAMAN.
Eyewitnesses reported that the installation was a popular attraction in the city center, and its destruction has left many locals disappointed. The art piece was intended to be a celebration of love in a society that often grapples with issues of censorship and public morality. The fact that it was so quickly vandalized raises questions about societal attitudes towards artistic expression and personal relationships.
As the story unfolded, it became clear that the installation was not only a reflection of SHAMAN and Mizulina's relationship but also a commentary on the broader cultural landscape in Russia. The destruction of the installation seems to echo the tensions between artistic freedom and societal norms, particularly in a country where public figures often face scrutiny for their personal lives.
Despite the vandalism, the couple's relationship appears to be thriving. Following their public announcement, both SHAMAN and Mizulina have received a mix of support and criticism from fans and the media. Their relationship has sparked discussions about love, public image, and the challenges faced by couples in the public eye.
In the aftermath of the installation's destruction, local authorities have yet to respond to the incident. There is a growing call among the community for accountability and a dialogue about the importance of protecting artistic expression. As artists and public figures continue to navigate the complexities of their lives in the public sphere, incidents like this highlight the ongoing struggle for acceptance and understanding.
The vandalism of the installation is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to express love and creativity in a world that can often be hostile to both. As SHAMAN and Mizulina continue to navigate their relationship in the limelight, their story serves as a poignant illustration of the intersection between art, love, and societal expectations.
