My ongoing project delves into the complex realm of modern parenthood, aiming to meditate on and examine its essence while unraveling its underlying driving forces. What began as two separate projects, You are my Mother and You are my Father, evolved into an intertwined exploration, leading to a much grander and fundamental question: What defines parenthood in our present-day world?
The initial focus was on examining the unique experiences of individuals of motherhood and fatherhood. However, as the puzzle pieces gradually intertwined, a more profound question emerged that contemplated the very nature of parenthood itself. The project expanded its scope, embracing the diverse aspects that shape our understanding of being a parent today. Our desire to belong is pivotal in shaping our approach and thoughts regarding family life. We seek connection and purpose, yearning to create and be part of a loving and nurturing environment. This deep-rooted longing extends beyond mere membership in a family unit and encompasses the profound journey of becoming parents in our adulthood.
Fortunately, our current time offers unprecedented options and opportunities for parenthood. The evolving landscape of parenthood in the contemporary world highlights the intricate interplay between societal changes, personal aspirations, and the fundamental human need for connection and belonging. Traditional roles and societal expectations are being redefined, making space for more inclusive and diverse narratives.
Angelika Kollin
Angelika Kollin (b. 1976) is an Estonian Fine Art/Documentary photographer currently residing
in Tampa, USA. She is a self-taught artist completing the Academy Fotografika 1.5 yearlong
online documentary photography course in 2023. Angelika passionately engages with
photography and art as a means to explore interhuman connections and intimacy. Her work is
driven by a lifelong yearning to understand and gain a deeper perspective on human loneliness
and suffering and faith's role in overcoming these challenges. Angelika's photography is
characterized by its honesty and unapologetic directness, which she skillfully balances with an
aura of intimate emotions and gracious dignity..
During her eight years living in African countries such as Ghana, Namibia, and South Africa,
Angelika delved into the same themes within different cultures and economic conditions, adding
rich diversity to her body of work. Currently, she is working on two ongoing projects titled You
Are My Mother/Father and Mary's Children..
Angelika's dedication has gathered recognition from prestigious organizations and competitions.
She has received accolades such as the Best in Competition 2023 from FMoPA, 1st prize winner
(2020) and finalist (2022) from Lensculture, 1st Place from BIFA (2021), finalist from Lucie
Foundation (2020), and finalist from PHMuseum (2020), among others. Her work has been
published in renowned outlets, including CNN, The Guardian, the Greif, Scientific American,
Musée Magazine, PhotoVogue, and F-Stop Magazine..
In addition to publications, Angelika's work has been exhibited at various esteemed venues and
festivals worldwide. Her photography has been showcased at the Helsinki Foto Festival, a group
exhibition organized by Lensculture in New York, a solo show in Cape Town, the OFF Foto
Festival in Bratislava, the FotoNostrum gallery in Barcelona, and The International Photographer
group exhibition in Berlin, among others..
www.angelikakollin.com
@angelikakollin
All about Angelika Kollin
