Mikko Palonkorpi's photography exhibition in the Tile and Cellar Galleries focuses on the mountain people and their habitats of South Caucasus (Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan). The different eras in the photographs appear layered: thousands of years of history and modern times mix with each other. The Caucasus is often in the spotlight of world politics due to conflicts or political turmoil. In my photos I want to bring out a different picture of the Caucasus. Photographs of everyday encounters depict a mountain way of life, which harsh conditions and traditions have shaped.

Some of the villages are located in the highest places in Europe and the places of residence are difficult to reach. Change does not occur instantly there. Earlier history, the Soviet era and the influences of our own time are all present in the villages, all the while time does seem to lose some of its meaning there. Mountains set limits and dominate the view, but on the other hand they also liberate. In the mountains of the Caucasus, you live in the moment, the joy of life can be seen in everyday chores.The photographs in this exhibition highlight unique Caucasian stories, which emphasize in a human way the special history of the area and culture. Modernization and mass tourism change slowly but the inexorably traditional lifestyle of the Caucasus mountains as well in the farthest corners. In ten years, part of the area the most distinctive features may already be gone.

‍www.palonkorpi.com

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