Valery Melnikov, Mariupol – Open Wounds

The Russian photographer’s (born 1973) series centres around the people of the Ukrainian industrial and port city of Mariupol. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the siege of the city in late February 2022, were followed by relentless fighting which has led to heavy casualties amongst the civilian population. Melnikov’s ongoing documentary project focuses on residents who have remained in the city and suffer the unbearable humanitarian consequences of the war.