Russia Close-Up

I grew up in modern Russia and I have not seen Soviet Union behind the Iron Curtain, or experienced it’s censorship and propaganda. But this gap in my life experience is being rapidly filled by things that have been happening in Russia for the last few years.

With the background of political apathy among the society there are inner processes that are not that obvious to the rest of the world: clericalization, forcing of patriotism and nationalism, strengthening of censorship and propaganda.

This series is an attempt to visualize these processes and bring the image of Russia up to date. To show “what it feels like” to live here nowadays, not “what Russia symbolize”.

Alexander Anufriev (1988) was born in Ukhta in Komi Republic, Russia, but now lives in Moscow. Currently studying at 3-year documentary programme at The Rodchenko Art School. His work was also screened during Riga Photomonth this year.