Thoughts by exchange student (2022)

During my exchange studies in Rovaniemi, I had the opportunity to work on a photography project that profoundly impacted my growth as a photographer. It was a refreshing experience to collaborate with professionals who didn't pressure me to conform to institutional standards or follow the latest trends. Previously, I struggled with the pressure to create work that met all the expected requirements, often leaving projects unfinished or feeling dissatisfied with the final results.

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However, the Photography module lecturer at the University of Lapland created an environment that fostered creative freedom and acceptance. This project reflects my personal journey of overcoming self-criticism, adapting to a new environment, and coping with challenges such as limited time and being away from loved ones. The constant darkness within the Arctic Circle added another layer of difficulty.

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For years, I focused on creating art that portrayed the stories of others, but I rarely expressed my own thoughts and emotions. This project provided a safe space where I could share my innermost feelings without the pressure to please others. The result is a book containing a collection of photographs taken in Rovaniemi, accompanied by diary-like narratives that reflect my thoughts and experiences, reminiscent of my teenage years when I hesitated to share my feelings through art.

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Photography exhibition | 2022 | Rovaniemi, Finland