I'M NOT FINE.
This photo series is my attempt to confront the chaos of life as a young woman living through war.
It’s a personal exploration of trauma and the struggle to hold on to a sense of normal life. In Ukraine, we always answer, 'I’m fine' when asked, 'how are you?' But everyone knows it's far from reality, yet admitting it often hurts even more.
This photo series is my attempt to confront the chaos of life as a young woman living through war.
It’s a personal exploration of trauma and the struggle to hold on to a sense of normal life. In Ukraine, we always answer, 'I’m fine' when asked, 'how are you?' But everyone knows it's far from reality, yet admitting it often hurts even more.
The two-wall rule is the most important one. To survive an explosion outside, you need at least two
walls for protection. Because of this, my bed and room often remain empty, and I spend my nights
on the floor in the corridor or near the elevators.
walls for protection. Because of this, my bed and room often remain empty, and I spend my nights
on the floor in the corridor or near the elevators.
My younger brother takes shelter in the same closet he’s hidden in since he was 10, even though
he’s outgrowing it now. He always carries my contact information in his bag, the piece of paper
carefully sealed in plastic to protect it from dirt and blood, just in case.
he’s outgrowing it now. He always carries my contact information in his bag, the piece of paper
carefully sealed in plastic to protect it from dirt and blood, just in case.
Yes, I'll smile, indeed, through tears and weeping
Sing my songs where evil holds its sway,
Hopeless, a steadfast hope forever keeping,
I shall live! You thoughts of grief, away!
Sing my songs where evil holds its sway,
Hopeless, a steadfast hope forever keeping,
I shall live! You thoughts of grief, away!
Lesya Ukrainka, 1890