13 Stories of War

IWM Books

Ukrainian photographers document and reflect on the Russian invasion.

This book brings together 13 visual essays by a diverse group of Ukrainian photographers and artists responding to the profound impact of full-scale war on their country and its people since the Russian invasion in February 2022. Moving beyond conventional narratives, these photographic testimonies are accompanied by insightful text, offering readers a nuanced and personal perspective that goes beyond typical media coverage. Delving into the themes of resilience, loss, and hope, the essays provide a vivid portrayal of the human experience amid conflict. This collection stands as a significant contribution, offering a thoughtful exploration of the multifaceted dimensions of war, inspiring empathy, and fostering a deeper understanding of the shared human experience in times of adversity.

Keep reading on the Documenting Ukraine Website.

The book has been supported by the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna (Institut für die Wissenschaften vom Menschen, IWM) as part of the Documenting Ukraine program; the Hasselblad Foundation; and the Swedish Institute.

List of articles or chapters and contributors

Julia Kochetova - War is Personal 
Yana Kononova - Radiations of War
Evgeniy Maloletka - The Siege of Mariupol
Lisa Bukreyeva - Do Not Look at the Pain of Others
Roman Pashkovskiy - The Torture Rooms
Alena Grom - This Mad, Mad World
Sergii Polezhaka- Naїve Ukrainian Gardens
Dmytro Kozatskyi - Azovstal
Sasha Kurmaz - Red Horse
Alexander Glyadyelov - War 
Olia Koval - 12 Frames
Viacheslav Ratynskyi - New Ordinary?
Roman Bordun - Let’s Keep it for Better Times