Student Interviews-Christiana Kokore “Incisions”-Interview by Ypatia Kornarou-Moments Collective
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Author: Ypatia Kornarou
What is the photographic project titled “Incision” about?
The project “Incisions” was conceived several years ago, but it eventually took shape within the framework of the classes at Moments Collective, which I had the pleasure of attending under the guidance of the beloved Hypatia Kornarou.
The starting point of the project is surgical incisions; however, its deeper meaning concerns human existence as revealed through personal struggle, lived experiences, and individual life stories. It is a deeply human and personal body of work, essentially optimistic in nature, with its central aim being to highlight the strength and beauty of human existence, as well as hope.The project has not yet been completed. It remains in progress, and I hope that one day it will be presented either as an exhibition or as a book accompanied by the stories of the people portrayed.
@Christiana Kokore
It is a series of photographs that combines documentary and conceptual elements.
How did the idea emerge? And what were the difficulties of such an important endeavor?
The idea arose through conversations I had with a friend of mine who had undergone a mastectomy. At some point, we decided together to photograph her incision. That was when the thought was born to create a photographic series featuring people and their incisions, accompanied by their personal stories.
@Christiana Kokore
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Why did you choose photography as a means of expression? What happens for you when you photograph?
Photography is not the only means of expression I have chosen in my life, as I was involved in painting from a very young age. However, over the past ten years, photography has won me over because of its immediacy. What I love most about photography is that it “captures” a moment and an emotion.
In my work, I am particularly interested in giving the viewer the opportunity to identify with the image to recognize a part of themselves within it. To discover, shape, or reconstruct their own story. I remember once at one of my exhibitions, five different people shared five completely different interpretations of the same photograph. For me, that is the magic of photography: its power to bring worlds and emotions to life within each viewer.
@Christiana Kokore
How do you believe the journey in art gradually influences artistic identity?
The journey in art gradually influences artistic identity in a way that resembles inner maturation. As a creator lives through different experiences, experiments with techniques, meets other people, and delves deeper into personal inquiries, all of these elements transform not only what they express, but also how they express it. Each work becomes a step upward. Every piece reflects a stage in the creator’s maturation, both as a human being and as an artist.
In other words, artistic identity is not a state of stagnation, but a dynamic relationship between personal experience, technical choices, and the themes that concern the artist. As a creator evolves, I would like to believe that their art becomes more mature, clearer, and more honest because it carries within it time, doubts, and discoveries.
@Christiana Kokore
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In which genre of photography do you most encounter aspects of yourself?
I appreciate all genres of photography and, from time to time, I engage with different ones. However, the ones that characterize me the most are portraiture, documentary photography, and street photography.
In general, I am drawn to images that feel real. I do not seek perfection in photography, nor am I fond of heavy post-processing.
@Christiana Kokore
Is there an interesting story you experienced during a photoshoot that you would like to share?
Because I choose to photograph people I love or who touch me on a deep emotional level, it is very difficult for me to single out one story over another. If I do not, in some way, “fall in love” with my subject, I simply cannot photograph them.
Especially in the context of the project “Incisions”, I feel the need to pause and once again thank those remarkable individuals who stood by my side as models, as inspiration, as courageous souls and trusted me so that we could collaborate and create this photographic work. Their stories unique and meaningful have each left their own imprint on my practice.
However, if I must choose one, I will speak about Christos.
Christos is young in age, but great in spirit. He was only one year old when he was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in his bladder. I experienced his journey up close. I am a close friend of his mother I love them dearly and during that period we were especially connected. It was the first time someone so close to me, and so young, was facing something so serious.
Christos fought with courage and perseverance.They even traveled to Germany for treatment with very limited financial means.
In the photograph, we captured the incision made to remove one of his ribs so that the treatment tubes could be inserted. He endured so much both he and his family.
Every time I spoke with his mother, I realized how insignificant my own problems truly were.
Because of Christos, I visited the “Elpida” Children’s Cancer Foundation for the first time, where children with similar conditions are hospitalized. I saw babies with tubes, children without hair, others in wheelchairs always with their parents or loved ones beside them, silent guardians and pillars of support.
I will never forget that experience.
Today, Christos is well. Healthy, strong-willed and wonderful.
On the day of the photoshoot, it had rained; it was cold, and the air was heavy with pollen due to the early spring. Christos remained unclothed outdoors so that we could have sufficient natural light and despite the biting cold, he stood there for a long time. He changed poses many times with patience and dedication, without complaining, even when the pollen made it difficult for him because of his allergy. His smile, his bravery, and the trust he showed me speak for themselves and will forever remain in my heart.
Today, this remarkable child is in middle school and continues to inspire us with his strength.
With many smiles!!
@Christiana Kokore
The Moments Collective Team 2026
