Kharkiv: Capital of Alternative Photography

Episode 2

Behind Perestroika 1985-1991

As Gorbachev’s reforms promised more freedom, a new generation of photographers in Kharkiv documented the final years of the USSR.

Episode 3

Turmoil of Independence 1991-2000

As the USSR collapses and Ukraine gains independence there is hope and confusion as the old world melts away. In the economic crisis of the 1990s life is hard for artists and photographers in Kharkiv.

Episode 4

One Decade, Two Revolutions 2004-2014

During unstable times, the photographers and artists of Kharkiv want to provoke society and denounce the corruption of post-soviet Ukraine. But whilst fighting for democracy, war comes to the Donbas region.

Episode 5

At the Heart of War - 2022 Onwards

Faced with the tragedy and hardships of war, the Kharkiv School are torn between the need to find shelter from the fighting and document the war.