Oleksandr Ziankovich

Ukraine •

Artist (Photography) •

Born 1982 •

I chase the unnoticed and reveal the beauty hidden in plain sight.

Born and raised in Belarus, now living and working in Ukraine, i am a street photographer dedicated to capturing the rhythm of urban life through candid, thought-provoking imagery.

I discovered street photography in 2017, initially as a way to add more movement to my daily routine. What started as a casual hobby quickly evolved into a profound passion. My primary profession as a computer graphics artist has significantly influenced my photographic work, enhancing appreciation for color, light, and composition. So, my journey into photography began as a natural extension of my background in computer graphics. Working with digital visuals sharpened my eye for color, composition, and contrast, but I soon realized that real life offers its own raw and unpredictable beauty. Street photography became my way of exploring that spontaneity, searching for fleeting moments that tell untold stories.

In 2020, the socio-political events in Belarus profoundly impacted my perspective and work. Initially focused on street photography, I found myself transitioning into photojournalism to document the unfolding events. This shift was not without personal consequences; I faced detentions and experienced the harsh realities of political unrest. These experiences deepened my understanding of the power of visual storytelling and reinforced my commitment to capturing authentic moments.

Due to the increasing pressure from the Belarusian government on independent journalists and photographers, I was forced to leave the country. Seeking new environments and narratives, I relocated to Odesa, Ukraine, in Fabruary 2022. The city’s vibrant culture and complex history have provided rich material for my work. However, the onset of conflict in Ukraine presented unforeseen challenges. Despite the circumstances, I chose to remain in Odesa, aiming to document the resilience and spirit of its people during these trying times. This decision underscores my belief in the role of photographers as witnesses to history, capturing both the beauty and adversity of human experiences.

One of my notable works during this period is the photograph titled “Train to Przemyśl,” depicting a young girl at the Odesa train station holding a pet carrier. This image encapsulates the innocence and vulnerability of those affected by the conflict and has resonated with many for its poignant portrayal of displacement.

Today, I continue to document the subtle complexities of human interactions and cultural landscapes, contributing to the evolving visual narrative of contemporary Ukraine.