Naked Moscow, interview with Fedya Ili

Tell us a little about your background and inspirations?

I'm Russian, lived most of my life in Moscow, worked as art director. I left Russia 10 years ago and started to literally live around the world, meeting local people, chatting, learning the culture and taking photographs. So people inspire me, their personal stories, and travelling of course.


What brought you to Berlin and how do you feel embraced by it?

I moved to Berlin almost 4 years ago from Buenos Aires, for its diverse, emerging and fun art scene. And we became very good mates with the city.


What attracted you to photography and who are your icons?

People. We are all trying to discover ourselves, who we are, what is love and where is our place in the world and society. Capturing the person in a moment of time. I admire Mapplethorpe and Rodin for how they show human nature, not only body and sexuality but opening a lot of emotions.


What is the situation in Moscow for artists and gay people right now?

I'd say Moscow is gay, but not openly. And exposing publicly anything lgbtiq can cause unpredictable reactions and issues, but more from official then from citizens.




What is the exhibit at the Ballery all about?

I've been often asked about gay life in Russia. 'Do they really kill gays?' So Naked Moscow exhibition is the answer - it shows the city and its iconic architecture with personal stories of 15 guys living there. And yes, they pose naked. Although like Berlin does not show situation in Germany, Moscow doesn't reflect whole Russia.


What is the power of photography today?

Photography was invented 100 years ago, don't think it has changed its power over people's minds. It's a memory of something you saw, have never seen or will see.



What is your opinion about Berlin as an art city?

We do have a few exhibition openings every day. That's amazing. The best one can do with art and for art is to show it, giving bread and wine for minds.


What is project is next for you?

I continue with Naked Cities, Buenos Aires to be released in late February.
What are you hoping for?
Love.