The adventures of princesses, knights, and witches aren’t just for kids anymore. With her Russ Land series, Russian photographer Uldus Bakhtiozina has completely reinterpreted the fairy tales of her youth, mixing pagan folklore and grown-up subtexts.
Courtesy Uldus Bakhtiozina
Reviving Childhood Fascination
Bakhtiozina, originally from St. Petersburg, recalls being read classic stories as a child. Her fascination was renewed when she researched the pagan origins of Russian folklore. <br /><br />”After Christianity came to Russ Land (Russia), it transformed, and people focused on forgetting these roots,” she says.
The Dark Side of Fairy Tales
Similar to the Grimm stories in Western Europe, Russian fairy tales were originally designed to both entertain and discourage bad behavior. “They were never written for kids,” Bakhtiozina remarks. “Fairy tales were actually like horror movies.”
Personal Interpretations
Since the stories never clarified how the characters fared after the “happily ever after,” Bakhtiozina imagined different endings. “I thought, ‘How could I write the ending for the fairy tale?'” Her take on The Dead Princess and the Seven Knights recasts the knights as immortals protecting the forest.
Challenging Traditions
In Bakhtiozina’s visual retelling, the Tsarevna Frog transforms from a literal frog into a hauntingly beautiful woman confined to water.
The Symbolism of Baba Yaga
Baba Yaga, a fearsome witch who impacts the hero’s journey, is reinterpreted. “I believe that all Baba Yagas were shamanic women with ties to nature and the supernatural,” she states.
Modern Perceptions
Aspects of stories may be misinterpreted over time, illustrated in the case of Ivan the Fool. “We understand it as ‘Ivan the Fool’ and conclude he’s not intelligent, but he emerges as the smartest character.”
Staying True to Nature
Bakhtiozina opts for realism by avoiding Photoshop and special effects, employing a traditional medium format camera. She creates costumes and manages hair and makeup herself. “I want people to feel this natural-supernatural connection, as if it coexists with us,” she explains.
Navigating Criticism
While her work has garnered enthusiasm, it has also faced criticism, particularly from Russian audiences. “Some are reluctant to accept that it might not align with their familiar perceptions,” she notes.
Recognition and Impact
Bakhtiozina faced backlash in her home country due to her series Desperate Romantics, which challenged gender norms. Her work, including Russ Land, has placed her on BBC’s list of 100 women changing the world.
