Armenia, at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, is facing a decisive phase in its history: long dependent on Russia as a protective power, the loss of Nagorno-Karabakh has made clear that this support cannot be relied upon. Russia's turning away and the fear of another war with Azerbaijan deprives Armenia of any hope of a secure future.

"It's my wound because it's pain for me" is a photographic exploration of Armenian society, whose identity is shaped by the trauma of the past, the fear of war and the sense of isolation. The work sheds light on the impact of geopolitical tensions and military conflicts on civilians in a region at the center of political interests and power struggles.

The military escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023 and the subsequent exodus of the Armenian population once again highlight the fragility of their existence. The fear of a further escalation of the conflict with the military enforcement of a corridor from Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhichevan is huge. Azerbaijan can count on powerful support from Turkey, while Moscow in turn is dependent on Turkey as a strategic partner. Russia refuses to support Armenia, but will not allow it to withdraw its influence and seek new allies in the West. Armenia is almost completely surrounded by enemies and faces enormous challenges.

Armenia, 2023 - ongoing