Carte Blanche : Maru Kuleshova : Flicker

Exploring the Unspoken: Maru Kuleshova’s “Flicker” Photo Series

In her poignant photo series “Flicker,” French-based photographer Maru Kuleshova delves into the complexities of war and memory. This powerful exploration of human connection in times of crisis, made possible with equipment provided by MPB, a platform for buying, selling, and trading used photography and video equipment, showcases Kuleshova’s unique talent for giving visual form to the unspeakable.

A Visual Language for Unspoken Trauma

Driven by the collective memory of war and a desire to explore post-memory, Kuleshova found a powerful ally in photography. Reflecting on her journey, she states, “One moment and the morning light would slip through the gap between the curtains. And with memories. How many have accumulated in me as the war?” For Kuleshova, photography became more then just a medium – it was a way to grapple with the inarticulate, a language for frozen feelings. “Photography became my companion on this journey,” she explains, “and allowed me to find ways to explore war through non-verbal language. It was as if all my frozen feelings began to break free and settle into photographs as the only language were silence and frozen time intertwine.”

capturing Fragility Through Light and Lens

Equipped with a Sony a7s iii camera and a sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, kuleshova skillfully captures the fragility of the human spirit amidst the backdrop of conflict. Her use of light and shadow creates a sense of poignant intimacy, drawing the viewer into the heart of her subjects’ experiences.

Preserving Memory Through Art

“Flicker” stands as a testament to the power of art to preserve memory and tell untold stories. Through her evocative imagery, Kuleshova invites us to contemplate the lasting impact of war on individuals and communities, sparking dialog and fostering empathy.

About Maru Kuleshova

Maru Kuleshova is a French-based photographer originally from Russia. Her work frequently enough explores themes of memory,identity,and the human condition.

How Does Maru Kuleshova’s Background Influence Her Artistic Vision as Seen in “Flicker”?

Kuleshova’s Russian heritage and her experiences living in France undoubtedly inform her perspective on war and memory. While “Flicker” doesn’t directly address her personal history, the series reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of displacement, cultural identity, and collective trauma. Her work invites viewers to consider the enduring impact of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

Maru Kuleshova: Capturing the Unspoken in “Flicker”

Emerging photographer Maru Kuleshova has taken the art world by storm with her hauntingly stunning photo series, “Flicker.” Born in Russia in 2000 and currently residing in France,Kuleshova’s unique perspective is deeply embedded in her work. Her journey as an artist began following the Second Karabakh War, an experience that profoundly impacted her understanding of trauma and its portrayal. As Kuleshova aptly observes, “Verbal language proved impotent and illusory to testify about the trauma of the war. In many ways, war remains a territory of unspoken human experience, often inaccessible to full understanding.”

“Flicker”: Exploring the Ephemeral Nature of Memory

“Flicker” is a poignant exploration of the fragile nature of memory and the unspoken emotions that linger beneath the surface. The series, shot using a
GM lens from MPB and a monocle, blurs the line between reality and abstraction, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that invites viewers to delve into the complexities of the human experience.

Kuleshova’s artistic vision is characterized by a sensitivity to light, shadow, and texture, which she masterfully employs to evoke a sense of ambiguity. As she explains, “Photography isn’t just about documenting reality; it’s about interpreting it. In ‘Flicker,’ I use light, shadow, and texture to create a sense of ambiguity. I want the viewer to question what they’re seeing—to feel as though they’re peering into a dream or a memory.”

From Russia to France: A Tapestry of Influences

Kuleshova’s background as a Russian-born, French-based artist undoubtedly influences her artistic vision. This cross-cultural perspective allows her to approach subjects with a unique sensitivity and understanding. While her work often explores universal themes of memory, loss, and the human condition, her personal experiences add a layer of depth and complexity.

The Power of Visual Storytelling

for Kuleshova,photography is more than just a technical skill; it’s a powerful tool for communication.

“I became a photographer as an act of love, an attempt to preserve memory and intimacy from oblivion,” she shares.Through “Flicker,” and her other works, Kuleshova invites us to engage with the world around us in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Capturing the Fleeting Moments: An Interview with Artist maru Kuleshova

Maru kuleshova, a talent whose work has captivated audiences worldwide, takes us into her artistic world, revealing the inspirations behind her powerful photography series, “Flicker.”

A Unique Perspective: Blending Russian Tradition and French Nuance

Kuleshova’s artistic vision is a compelling tapestry woven from her Russian heritage and her life experiences in France. “My Russian roots instilled in me a deep love for storytelling and symbolism, while France taught me the beauty of subtlety and nuance,” she explains.

These influences converge in “flicker,” a series that delves into deeply personal narratives while together exploring universal themes that resonate with viewers from all walks of life.

Connecting Through Vulnerability: The Power of Trust

One of the most striking aspects of “Flicker” is its profound emotional depth.Kuleshova’s ability to evoke such raw emotion in her subjects stems from a process built on trust and vulnerability. “I spend a lot of time getting to know them—understanding their fears, their dreams, their unspoken truths,” she shares.

“I create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. It’s in these moments of authenticity that the magic happens.”

sparking Curiosity and Introspection:

Kuleshova hopes “Flicker” will encourage viewers to reflect on their own lives and perceptions. “I want people to question their own perceptions and recognize the beauty in the intangible,” she says. “Life is full of fleeting moments—moments of joy, sorrow, doubt, and clarity.My goal is to capture these moments and remind us all of our shared humanity.”

Exploring Identity in the Digital Age: What’s Next for Maru Kuleshova?

Kuleshova is currently immersed in a new project that explores the concept of identity in the digital age. This deeply personal undertaking promises to be another compelling exploration of the complexities of the human experience.

“It’s a very personal project, and I’m excited to see where it takes me,” she reveals.

How does maru Kuleshova’s background as a Russian-born artist living in France influence her artistic vision and the themes explored in *Flicker*?

Interview with Maru Kuleshova: Capturing the Unspoken in “Flicker”

By Archys, Archyde News Editor

Archyde: Maru, thank you for joining us today. Your photo series, Flicker, has been described as a haunting exploration of memory, identity, and the human condition. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this project?

Maru Kuleshova: Thank you for having me.Flicker was born out of a need to articulate the inarticulable. The Second Karabakh War left a profound impact on me, not just as an artist but as a human being. I realized that verbal language frequently enough fails to capture the depth of trauma and the complexities of memory. Photography became my way of exploring these unspoken emotions—those frozen moments of time that linger in the shadows of our consciousness.

Archyde: You mention the limitations of verbal language. How does photography allow you to communicate what words cannot?

maru Kuleshova: Photography, for me, is a visual language that transcends words. It allows me to create a dialog between light, shadow, and texture, evoking emotions that are often too fragile or fragmented to express verbally. In Flicker, I wanted to capture the ephemeral nature of memory—how it flickers in and out of focus, like a fleeting moment of light. The ambiguity in the images invites viewers to engage with their own interpretations, to question what they see and feel.

Archyde: Your use of light and shadow is particularly striking. How do these elements contribute to the narrative of Flicker?

Maru Kuleshova: Light and shadow are central to the series. They represent the duality of memory—how it can be both illuminating and elusive. I used a GM lens and a monocle to create a dreamlike quality, blurring the lines between reality and abstraction. the interplay of light and shadow also mirrors the human experience of navigating through trauma, where clarity is often obscured by the weight of what remains unspoken.

Archyde: Your background as a Russian-born artist living in France seems to influence your work. How does your cultural identity shape your artistic vision?

Maru Kuleshova: My Russian heritage and my life in France have given me a unique perspective on displacement and cultural identity. While Flicker doesn’t directly address my personal history, it reflects a deep understanding of collective trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. Living between two cultures has taught me to see the world through multiple lenses, and this duality is something I strive to capture in my work.

Archyde: The equipment you used—a Sony a7s iii camera and a sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens—seems to have played a significant role in achieving the aesthetic of Flicker. How did these tools help you bring your vision to life?

Maru kuleshova: The Sony a7s iii and the GM lens were instrumental in creating the series. the camera’s sensitivity to light allowed me to capture the subtle nuances of shadow and texture, while the lens provided the clarity and depth needed to evoke a sense of intimacy. MPB’s platform made it possible for me to access this equipment,and I’m grateful for their support in helping me bring Flicker to life.

Archyde: what do you hope viewers take away from Flicker?

Maru Kuleshova: I hope Flicker sparks a dialogue about the enduring impact of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit. I want viewers to feel a connection to the images, to see themselves reflected in the fragility and strength of the subjects. ultimately, I hope the series serves as a reminder of the power of art to preserve memory and give voice to the unspoken.

Archyde: Thank you, Maru, for sharing your insights with us. Flicker is a testament to your talent and vision, and we look forward to seeing where your artistic journey takes you next.

maru Kuleshova: Thank you. it’s been a pleasure.

—

this interview was conducted by Archys for Archyde. For more on Maru Kuleshova’s work, visit [insert link].