Computer scientist Tolya G is on vacation in Berlin, but his “Smart Dog” project is never far from his thoughts. Coincidentally, Berlin is still home to  a number of “Buddy Bears” – two meter tall fiberglass bears standing on their hind legs –  left over from 2001 at key spots throughout the city. 

Digitally collaging Tolya’s “Smart Dog” avatar leaning on the Berlin Wall while placing a Buddy Bear directly directly across the yellow grid on which Tolya kneels on all fours), one gets the distinct impression these two life-size chess pieces are about to challenge one another. 

Tolya’s wife donated a travel shot of the Brandenburg Gates at sundown, perfectly completing the dramatic showdown in this custom photomontage.