In late July 2017, a monument was unveiled in Rostov-on-Don to one of the most famous clowns of the last century, Oleg Popov, who frequently visited the city for performances. The monument, dedicated to the 'sunny clown,' is made of bronze and brings good cheer to passersby with its smile. It was installed near the Rostov circus building, and the sculpture was created by Svetlana Bukke.

The opening ceremony of the monument was held with great pomp and was timed to coincide with Oleg Popov's birthday. The event was attended by Edgard Zapashny, director of the Bolshoi Moscow State Circus on Vernadsky Avenue, colleagues and friends of Oleg Popov, as well as his widow, Gabriela Popova.