The exhibition In their place is a socially significant study by Vladimir Karamazov on the subject of freedom as a fundamental human right that drives the world. The individual interpretation of freedom and real – life situations that engage us in reconsidering the definition of the concept lies at the core of the idea.

Eighty-one photographs, and video and audio installations, as well as authentic articles and objects from prison cells, present individuals condemned to deprivation of liberty who are serving one of the most severe sentences behind bars at Belene Prison – life imprisonment without prerogative of mercy.

Some of their personal stories are told, and moments from their daily round are shown, with the goal of full-bloodedly introducing the viewers to the atmosphere of a different paradigm of human existence. The artist succeeds in bringing out the concept of freedom by touching on many other aspects of human existence, and not confining it solely to its relationship with the corporeal and the immediate surroundings.

Vladimir Karamazov stated:

‘By this logic, I decided to explore “the face of evil” from a reverse perspective – I, the physically free man who lives in the prison of his own freedom. I directed my creative efforts on those places where freedom was categorically absent: prisons. I obtained permission to work for a year on the small Persin Island in the River Danube, not far from the town of Belene. I was admitted to the prisoners sentenced to life. I met them face to face. I talked to people with dreadful stories and destinies. In this project, I am lending my eyes and, through the photographs of the convicts, I express my position as an artist who denies prejudice. I tried to put myself in their shoes without being foolishly idealistic. I know that pure evil exists. But I also believe in repentance and forgiveness. It is precisely these that make us human.’

The project aims to engage the younger public particularly forcefully. An accompanying programme is planned, centred on educational events and ateliers. The artist Vladimir Karamazov, as well as many specialists in various fields – sociologists, pedagogues, journalists, experts from the Ministry of Justice, and art historians from the National Gallery – will participate. The main theme of these events will be the prevention of the risks of violence in educational establishments and the public environment.

The exhibition was co-financed by the Lachezar Tsotsorkov Foundation and made possible with the support of PhotoSynthesis Print Centre and Coral Spectrum Ltd. Media partner: BTA / Bulgarian News Agency.