Moscow is currently hosting the 13th All-Russian Nature Festival “Primeval Russia,” a prestigious event that spotlights the breathtaking biodiversity and untouched landscapes of the nation. Among the captivating displays drawing significant attention is an exquisite photographic collection from Kamchatka, Russia’s remote Far Eastern peninsula, where the delicate balance of nature thrives in its rawest form. This year, one particular image, a striking portrait of a Kamchatka fox, has been chosen to grace the festival’s primary promotional materials, symbolizing the wild heart of Russia.
At the forefront of this Kamchatka showcase is the work of acclaimed photographer and seasoned traveler, Denis Budkov, whose six evocative pieces transport viewers into the region’s untamed expanses. His featured works originate from renowned locations such as the Kronotsky Nature Reserve, the South Kamchatka Federal Sanctuary, and the stunning Volcanoes of Kamchatka Nature Park, capturing the essence of diverse ecosystems. However, it is the intimate portrayal of the fox, photographed remarkably close to his home in the village of Termalny, that has become the festival’s emblem.
Budkov’s dedication to capturing this specific “ognyovka,” or “fire-fox” – a local moniker for the species due to its vivid orange fur – spanned an extraordinary three years. This extended period allowed him to build a rare level of trust, documenting not only the adult fox but also observing the growth and development of its kits during one memorable year. His patient approach involved countless hours spent quietly near the fox’s dens, of which he had meticulously located five temporary and three ancestral shelters within a mere five-minute walk from his residence. This perseverance ultimately enabled him to secure remarkably close-up shots from just 10-15 meters, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the daily life of this elusive predator.
The prominence given to Budkov’s work at “Primeval Russia” underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing Russia’s rich natural heritage and the talent dedicated to its preservation through art. Beyond the iconic fox, another of Budkov’s compelling images—a serene bear cub resting on a tree from the South Kamchatka Federal Sanctuary—is featured in a special exhibition titled “Smiling with Animals,” further highlighting the diverse and endearing wildlife of the region. These photographs serve as powerful ambassadors for Kamchatka, inviting a global audience to appreciate and advocate for the conservation of such invaluable natural treasures.
The festival, now in its thirteenth iteration, provides a vital platform for environmental awareness and cultural exchange, offering both Russian citizens and international visitors a unique window into the country’s ecological grandeur. Hosted at Moscow’s historic Central Exhibition Hall “Manezh,” near the famous Red Square, the event continues to welcome guests until March 5th, inviting them to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of Russia, as captured through the discerning lenses of its finest nature photographers.