Alexander Gronsky, an Estonian-born photographer, has captured the unsettling atmosphere of Moscow's suburbs through his latest photographic series titled "Something Is Going on Here." This collection, produced in the aftermath of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, reveals a landscape marked by a curious juxtaposition of military presence and everyday life. Gronsky, who has spent most of his career in Russia, first gained international attention when he was arrested during the anti-Putin protests in 2015.
In "Something Is Going on Here," Gronsky explores the hinterlands at the edges of Moscow, regions that are often half-developed or awaiting further construction. The presence of bulldozers and incomplete tower blocks provides a backdrop to these images, which evoke a sense of anticipation and trepidation. The choice of these locations highlights the tension inherent in spaces caught between potential transformation and stagnation.
The images taken by Gronsky showcase the uneasy "pastoral" atmosphere that has emerged since the invasion. In these winter landscapes, military vehicles idly populate the scenery, while uniformed Russian soldiers interact with ordinary residents. This blending of military and civilian life creates an unsettling dynamic that permeates the series.
Gronsky's work captures not only the physical landscape but also the emotional resonance of living in such uncertain times. He notes the peculiarities of these spaces, stating, “there’s a gap in the fence, and beyond lies an abandoned construction site. Different rules apply in this space – there are no ethical boundaries; you can use this place as a restroom or smash beer bottles.” His words reflect the disarray that characterizes these areas, where the borders of civility often blur.
As Gronsky documents these suburban settings, he invites viewers to contemplate their own perceptions of safety and normalcy. The photographs serve as a stark reminder of the realities faced by those living in proximity to military forces amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The series reveals that in a place where anything can happen, the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and moments of stillness can feel charged with imminent change.