Unseen Presence: Homeland Hues chronicles the upheaval caused by the Russian military intervention in Ukraine. This conflict has prompted many dissidents to flee the country in order to evade persecution. Amidst this turmoil, I seek solace in rebuilding my community through photographing members of the Russian diaspora in Boston, capturing their experiences and struggles in neutral settings. The narrative depicts the challenges faced by Russian expatriates, including visa issues, financial instability, and the constant fear of conscription or imprisonment. Drawing parallels to historical instances of repression, I highlight the enduring struggle of Russian immigrants to conceal their identity and navigate life in exile. The work serves as a visual exploration of the Russian community’s presence and resilience amidst adversity.
