LGBT in Russia (Worktitel)

The ban on „propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations“ was signed into the Russian federal law by Vladimir Putin in June 2013. This law, also known as the „anti-gay law“, is just one more example of a tendency to regression toward a more intolerant society and the attempt of the Russian government to redirect attention away from other problems.

For such a long time this topic has been a taboo. It’s no longer illegal to be gay (the restriction was lied in 1993), a homophobic atmosphere is still there.

As seen in Chechnya, the gay men are persecuted and threatened to death.

And this is a big issue not only for Russia but for the whole world.

By documenting the everyday life of couples of different ages in cities and towns, by photographing the hidden places, by taking portraits I look to collect pieces of the bright LGBT portrait of Russia. I look for ordinary, for universal moments.

Unfortunately, little attention was paid to trying to find a new angle for this topic. I want to discover an ability of people to enjoy the moment and value the happiness and joy of everyday life despite an open homophobia on the television, by politicians and the predominant Orthodox Church.

My protagonists still care about not showing their feelings in public but they are not afraid to show their faces in my story. This project is a continuation of my attempt at trying to find something positive even in the worst situations.

My work will aim to take steps toward a more tolerant Russian society, to start discussions and debates.