Städteländer

(2021 - 2023)

Among quiet fields I meet distance shaped by memory.

As a boy of six, I move with my parents to a small village with a close-knit community in the countryside. I experience a childhood of playing outside, freedom and adventure, but not carefree. I find it hard to connect in the village. The feeling of not belonging prevails. Difficult family dynamics reinforce the feeling of loneliness. At 17, I move to the city for my studies. I make friends and live more in anonymity. The feeling of loneliness gradually disappears and I seem to forget about village life.

I never thought I would experience it again. After 25 years of city life, I follow my parents' example and move with my family to a small rural village. Time may have aged me, but it soon turns out that my past traumas still affect me. Although I enjoy the peace, nature and freedom, I still find it hard to connect. The feeling of not belonging returns. I fear that history will repeat itself for my children.

"STÄDTELÄNDER" is a compelling narrative exploring the theme of not belonging, a sentiment that resonates universally. This project delves into my childhood and the neighborhood I grew up in, with the experience of moving to the countryside with my family.