Anastasia Samoylova

“Climate change is the defining issue of our time. It is forcing us to adapt and innovate. In my new project, Transformations, I will document stories of climate adaptation in key locations across the globe. I will focus on altered landscapes, new green industries, climate-resilient architecture, and the people behind these transformative innovations. Building upon my previous long-term projects, Transformations will address the challenges and victories in the climate movement in a way that is both poetic and informative while offering a unique and enlightening perspective on this urgent topic.

Throughout the last 15 years, my work has addressed how the places we inhabit shape our under-standing of the world and our position to effect change. My approach extends from the documentary tradition. Following the artistic lineage of Walker Evans and Berenice Abbott, I refrain from making didactic statements in my work while relying on the thoroughly researched lists of subjects that I aim to depict in a more open way.

My Transformations project has been inspired by the concept of ‘climatopias’, the subject of research by environmental scientist Alizé Carrère who defines ‘climatopias’ as ‘architectural works that meet social, political and spatial criteria for just, inclusive and resilient urban futures.’ In Transformations I will focus on such examples using my visual method of careful observation and restrained commentary. In the face of overwhelming climate data and distressing images in the media, it is easy to succumb to feelings of helplessness. By highlighting progress, no matter how small, I aim to shift the narrative from despair to one of collaborative resilience. My Transformations project will bring the stories of climate hope and progress amidst adversity to the forefront, ensuring they become catalysts for positive change.”