Russian “Paradise” for Mentally Disabled

Patients from one of the psychiatric facilities in the small Russian town of Elat’ma participate in organized activities such as water gun fights. (Photo by Anastasia Rudenko)

“Elat’ma, the Ryazan Oblast region of Russia. This small town is only 300 kilometers (186 miles) from modern Moscow but remains 60 years in the past, dominated by the spirit of socialism. The air of the communist ‘50s can be seen in the town’s architecture, celebrations and other occurrences. Sometimes called the “Switzerland of Ryazan”, Elat’ma has the natural charm of the countryside. But neither its beauty nor its ties to a socialist past brought photographer Anastasia Rudenko to this village. It has a different significance to her, both personal and professional.
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