77-year-old Tatyana is an American who was born in Harbin. She left Harbin when she was 3 years old. She had no memory about Harbin from her childhood. An occasion in 2008 brought her to return to her birthplace. Later, she returned to Harbin continuously for three years. What sentiments let the over 70-year-old woman who stepped over the distance, come to “the city of ice and snow” in the north, China? Tatyana said she looked for her initial memory.

In the grand opening ceremony of Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, Tatyana came to Harbin again to participate in Harbin International Ice Sculpture and Snow Sculpture Competitions with her daughter, Alexa. “I like people here; people in each city have their own personalities. I like the personalities of Harbin people. I love the way the youth dress. When I come here, time stops. I’m not aging. I can do sculptures as the youth do. That’s why I come here.” Tatyana said proudly.

The parents of Tatyana Schremko are Soviets. They met and married in Harbin. Tatyana was born in Harbin in 1934. When she was three, her whole family left China and returned to the Soviet. “I was little at that time; I have no memory about here. I just know this is my birthplace.” A coincidence brought Tatyana to this familiar and strange place. “I’m always taking part in sculptures. Once I met a Canadian. She told me she wanted to participate in Harbin Ice Sculpture Competition. She needed a partner. When I heard she headed for Harbin, I’m surprised. I agreed to be her partner. So in 2008, we came here.” From then on, Tatyana will come to Harbin to join in ice and snow sculpture competitions. She said she couldn’t remember the city in 70 years ago but there’s always a kind of affection drawing her. She felt unforgettable.