With her book Fragile as Glass, Sitara Thalia Ambrosio presents a sensitive and stirring photographic essay that documents the fates of several queer people in Ukraine. The long-term project creates space for images and thoughts that are increasingly occluded in times of crisis and war.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the political and social reformation of the country initiated by Euromaidan has been severely tested. Old priorities have shifted, taken a back seat, or are more in focus than ever. The difficult situation of the community is further exacerbated by war, homophobic and anti-trans propaganda driven by Russia, and the persecution of queer activists. The book tells their stories by way of example. Quotes and interviews complement the documentary photos from the lives of the five protagonists. In intimate, powerful, and moving portraits and statements, the fragility of their situation is exposed, and it becomes clear how the war affects their lives, their environment, their identity, and sexuality.

With a text by Yana Radchenko. The journalist herself fled her hometown in Ukraine to escape the Russian troops. In her text "Beyond Pain", she interweaves the facts with the personal level.

Supported by:
Design, Layout, and Content Design in cooperation with Stiftung Leben & Umwelt / Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Niedersachsen 
HELLERAU – European Centre for the Arts / residency prize of PORTRAITS – Hellerau Photography Award