Zair Azgur, the Belarusian sculptor, National Artist of the USSR:
“During my life I met many outstanding people. But Yakub Kolas was always something special to me. I often recall my conversations with him about the development of our national art. I have never thought of him as a canonized classic. I remember him a common Belarusian, a patriot, the character he depicted in such passionate words. I find it logical and appropriate that Yakub Kolas’ bronze figure, surrounded by the characters of his novels and poems, has appeared in one of Minsk’s central squares. And I’m proud that the creation of this monument was entrusted to me. Standing here where a swamp once spread, it indeed symbolizes new Belarus”.