STEPHEN FRAZIER, CNN ANCHOR: One thing on the rise in Russia is the president's image. Vladimir Putin is revered by many, and now he's being immortalized. CNN's Steve Harrigan explains how.</s>STEVE HARRIGAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The scenes change, but the hero of every painting is the same: portraits of Vladimir Putin, one artist says, should be prayed to like icons.</s>FYODOR DUBROVIN, ARTIST (through translator): Our people are sick and tired of negative characters and images. Finally, when a positive image approaches, it's something you really want to worship.</s>HARRIGAN: That positive image has survived both the war in Chechnya and the battle in Moscow over freedom of the press. One year after being elected, polls show approval ratings for the president still at 60 percent. In St. Petersburg, the first Putin-plaster bust is ready for making a bronze cast. (on camera): The Russian president is saying he's against sculptures, portraits, any cult of personality. But in his hometown, admirers and businessmen aren't listening. (voice-over): Putin pictures are printed for sale by a government weapons factory. A familiar idea to those who grew up with a mandatory Lenin in every office, but puzzling to a new generation.</s>UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Why? Why? I don't think any of my friends would have those pictures. It's just -- it's very strange, really, come to think of it.</s>HARRIGAN: At $15 for a small Putin, $40 for a large, real-life photos are slow sellers. Fantasy is proving more profitable.</s>DUBROVIN (through translator): He's a short, not very attractive man. But deep inside, he's a giant. I tried to communicate that greatness in my art.</s>HARRIGAN: The man who paints heroic Putins already has deals to immortalize five of Russia's regional governors who want to follow their leader on canvas. Steve Harrigan, CNN, St. Petersburg, Russia.
Images of Putin Rise in Popularity in Russia