Maria Cohen. “Axis”
Photograph, 2024
Photographer: Dmitri Bluglass

Maria stands within a geometry of emptiness, poised as if on the verge of rupture or revelation. In her stillness, there is tension—like the moment before a particle accelerator fires.

The surrounding space becomes a chamber, capturing the instant when the inner and the outer, the vulnerable and the resolute, the incompatible and the true—align into a single line.

A portrait of an artist whose nature is a continuous search for the core.

Gaffer Jambik spreads his arms wide, like a conductor of chaos at the edge of light and darkness. In his right hand—an entanglement of cables, in his left— a lighting fixture, harnessing electricity. He does not carry a burden; he leads the rhythm of the shooting day, where light obeys the master’s will.

In a couple of hours at the Paris Olympics, Mikhail Yakovlev, an honorary member of the Street Photography School and a member of the Israeli Olympic team, will compete in a sprint race. We wish him good luck and a great performance! The painting "Cat Fight" from the Flemish school captures the competitive spirit, similar to the rivalry between the cycling schools of the Netherlands and Russia. In the foreground, Mikhail Yakovlev's silhouette shows his deep connection to art and photography.

Captured with a Leica M-A and Summilux 21mm lens on Kodak Tri-X film, this image blends art and science. Yana Batyrshina, a rhythmic gymnastics icon, stands poised in a corridor where geometry and light interplay. Vertical and horizontal lines symbolize discipline, while diagonal lines and shadow triangles introduce dynamic tension, mirroring her precise movements. This photograph highlights the harmony of structure and fluidity in her sport, showcasing her legacy of elegance and precision.

The man warmly smiling behind the wooden table is Alexander Gololobov, a distinguished figure in the fashion retail industry. He began his career in 2002 at the Uk Style boutique on Nikitsky Boulevard 17 in Moscow, founded by Andrey Kovalev. Initially working as a security guard, Alexander's dedication and professionalism quickly led him to become the administrator and the face of the store

An overall sense of indifference pervades the subway car, with passengers absorbed in their own thoughts and activities, paying no attention to one another. This indifference is mirrored in the geometric composition: the circles of the balloons remain indifferent to the triangle of perspective, which guides the viewer’s eye into the depth of the image. The circles remain static and self-sufficient, providing visual balance but not interacting with the triangular lines, highlighting the isolation and detachment of the passengers.

In May 2024, a group of Iranian students were photographed enjoying an evening out in Moscow, symbolizing a cultural confluence where beer, a forbidden drink in Iran, becomes a symbol of newfound freedom. This vibrant image, captured on a Leica M-A camera with Kodak 250D film, highlights the joyful spirit of youthful exploration and the blending of diverse traditions.

"Whispers of Spring on Cobblestone" captured by Dmitri Bluglass, is a testament to the beauty found in everyday city moments. With a Leica M-A, Summicron 35mm lens, and Kodak 250D film, this piece masterfully blends the charm of Moscow's springtime with the nuances of street photography. Taken on Malaya Dmitrovka Street in May 2024, the image showcases a serene interaction between two women, framed by the harmonious juxtaposition of bonsai trees and strong municipal elements. Their quiet conversation, bathed in soft, diffused light, invites viewers into a tranquil yet lively cityscape. This photograph speaks to the essence of urban life, capturing the fleeting beauty of connection amidst the hustle and bustle. "Whispers of Spring on Cobblestone" is a perfect addition to any collection, offering a poetic glimpse into the everyday elegance of civic life.

Rabbits Choice by Maria Cohen explores the themes of choice and freedom using vibrant graffiti, symbolizing introspection and the journey into the unknown. This concept parallels the Passover Seder, where J leads the ritual, reflecting on the exodus from slavery. Both pieces, captured in black-and-white, delve into the significance of personal and collective liberation.