Photographer Enri Canaj documents the heart-wrenching decline of a once-prosperous city in his series 'Shadows of Greece.' Plagued by poverty, crime, sex trafficking and the political protests of fascist and anti-fascist groups, Athens no longer offers its citizens a safe environment. Canaj, who migrated to Athens at age 11, takes a special interest in the city's immigrant populace and the agonizing conditions and treatment they are subject to.
Explaining the project, Canaj tells Vice, "These are places that were once the city’s busiest districts and now rot in abandonment. People creep through the streets like shadows, heads down, stiff shoulders, sealed lips. While the stock market falls, suicide is on a steady rise. Each photograph depicts a person with a story to tell."
Athenian Poverty Photography
Enri Canaj Photographs Poverty and Protest in 'Shadows in Greece'
Trend Themes
1. Urban Decay Photography - Opportunity for photographers to capture the decline and decay of cities, highlighting social issues and inequality.
2. Social Activism Documentation - Photographers can document social protests and movements, shedding light on important issues and advocating for change.
3. Immigrant Experience Photography - Photographers can focus on capturing the stories and struggles of immigrants, showcasing their resilience and the challenges they face.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photographers can use their skills to capture images that highlight social issues and spark conversations about inequality and injustice.
2. Social Services - Organizations and nonprofits can use the documentation of poverty, crime, and social issues to raise awareness and drive efforts for change and support.
3. Migration and Refugee Support - Documentation of immigrant experiences can help organizations and policymakers understand the challenges faced by immigrants and develop better support systems.