TASO ABULADZE “GHOST TOWN” SPÉOS 64 WEEK PHOTOJOURNALISM 2025
GHOST TOWN
T h i s p r o j e c t f o c u s e s o n a s m a l l , f a d i n g v i l l a g e i n m y c o u n t r y. M a n y v i l l a g e s a r e a t risk of disappearing, often without recognition. The village I selected is located in the mountains of Georgia and is home to only five families. These families live a limited existence, lacking access to basic amenities such as schools, hospitals, or restaurants. They have only a small supermarket with essential goods. The migration of the younger generation to cities in search of a better life has left behind elderly residents deeply rooted in their homes. As I walked through the nearly demolished streets, I felt that these abandoned houses were once vibrant. Capturing the loneliness of this place is both challenging and vital, as it tells the story of a community fading from existence. Despite the desolation, life still persists. The remaining villagers have adapted and share treasured memories of the past, finding ways to stay connected to the land. I listened to their stories, discovering beauty in aged doors, peeling paint, and nature reclaiming spaces. Through my lens, with these coloured photographs, I wanted to show the beauty of these empty spaces and the resilience of those who remain.
This project represents many places that go unheard not just in Georgia, but worldwide.
Taso Abuladze Ta s o A b u l a d z e i s a d o c u m e n t a r y a n d f i n e a r t p h o t o g r a p h e r b o r n in 1999 in Tbilisi, Georgia. Currently based in Paris, she uses her photography to revisit and reinterpret personal memories, offering fresh perspectives on past experiences.
tasoabuladze.com tasoabuladzephoto@gmail.com