Journeys towards light

Newsha Tavakolian (1981, Tehran), a Magnum Photos member, is an Iranian photographer, visual artist, filmmaker and educator known for her work that captures the human condition. Tavakolian began her career in photography at a young age, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the field. Her photography is characterized by its evocative storytelling and her keen eye for capturing the delicate emotions that shape us as humans. She has covered a wide range of topics, from the challenges faced by women in Iran and worldwide to the aftermath of tensions in conflict zones. Her work often combines artistry with documentary, blurring the lines between reality and the imagined. In this specially commissioned interview, she discusses her motivations for taking pictures, the ethical implications of photographing in post-conflict situations, and the media currency of images of peace and war.