In this project, I explore the fragility of inner balance through self-portraits taken while twirling – a physical act that mirrors an emotional state. As I spun, my movement became unsteady, shifting from side to side, reflecting the difficulty of maintaining equilibrium in a fast-moving, chaotic world. These images capture the internal struggle to remain centered amidst an overwhelming flow of information, constant bad news, and the rapid pace of modern life.
In parallel, I photographed the external world, focusing on landscapes and scenes from Ukraine. Having moved to Germany after the Russian full-scale invasion of my country, I have come to recognize the stark contrasts between these environments. In Germany, life feels calm and stable, yet every visit to Ukraine reveals how the war continues to reshape the landscape and its people. This dual perspective – between personal disorientation and the changing realities of my homeland – forms the heart of this project. It seeks to illuminate the tension between internal and external worlds and the ongoing challenge of finding balance amidst instability.

@marynashtanko