Danila Tkachenko is a Russian visual artist that works in the field between the conceptual and documentary photography edges. In his latest series titled Oasis, Tkachenko explores the quick socioeconomic transition process in Qatar, and the consequent impact on the life, culture, and traditions of its population. Qatar was transformed from an underdeveloped desert country, with its economy focused on fishing and pearl hunting, into one of the richest after the discovery of petroleum.
The residents of the country have ended up in a new reality over a very short time period. Moving from a country with a harsh desert climate, [with a] small amount of freshwater, where they always had to work hard to survive, they find themselves in a capitalist heaven. The Qatari people, leaving behind the stark desert wearing traditional clothes and entering a new contemporary reality, are joyfully accepting all the benefits of the capitalist world, seeking more and more comfort and luxury. At the same time, they are meeting the challenges of this new world. Will the Qatari people manage to retain their identity? Or will they lose their strength of will in such a comfortable environment? Will they yield to the destructive temptations and attractions of the new world? Only time will tell.
Danila Tkachenko
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