Photographer Aleksandra Sachenko and Model Melissa Ermishina team up for our latest exclusive cover story.

The idea for this project was born out of my inner state. I am a fragile woman who carries the heavy burden of emigration, of finding myself in a new field of art, of endless competition. I can't stop even for a moment and just exhale, I can't put my whole life on pause, because you can't stop. That is why deep inside myself I am looking for that very shelter that will allow me to hide from the whole world at least for a while and listen to myself: Am I not tired? Do I have the energy for this or that project? What do I want right now? In this regard, I can honestly admit that this project is autobiographical.

I didn't choose transparent fabric for nothing - you can hide behind it without falling out of the context of life (because through it you can safely observe the world and "keep your hand on the pulse"). 

The location was also chosen for a reason: it is a cascade of waterfalls on the Cijevna River in Montenegro. It's an incredibly picturesque place with a stunning cascade of waterfalls! It is so noisy there that you can drown out any thoughts in your head. And it is so beautiful that you want to leave all worries and fatigue aside for a minute and just enjoy the moment. 

The fabric that covers the model is imitating that very shelter, it flows as well as the water in the background. Everything is filled with a sense of tranquillity, creating the very sanctuary that each of us needs at different times.

Conclusion:

The depth of this shoot and yet the simplicity of its execution make it one of my favorites. The model is wearing no make-up and no styling. She feels completely calm and secure. She feels like herself. Feels herself. Hears herself.

I am very happy that Melissa shared my idea and gave herself completely to the process. I think it was very heartfelt.