Alexey Vasilyev's photographic project "Tompo" offers a poignant exploration of the Evens, an indigenous community in the Yakutsk region of Russia, whose traditional way of life has been significantly altered by historical and modern forces.
Topolinoe village, situated on the Tompo River, serves as the backdrop for Vasilyev's investigation into the cultural and existential transformation of the Evens. This community, once known as the "reindeer people," was subjected to drastic changes under Soviet rule, which disrupted their nomadic lifestyle and imposed a settled, collectivized existence.
Vasilyev, a native of Yakutsk, brings an intimate understanding of the harsh yet vibrant environment of his homeland. His personal narrative—growing up in a city where temperatures plummet to extreme lows—parallels the resilience and adaptability of the Evens. His photographic journey began as a hobby, capturing mundane yet telling details of urban life, which eventually evolved into a profound documentary practice. Vasilyev's focus has shifted to the Evens, highlighting the tension between preserving traditional ways and adapting to contemporary realities.
In "Tompo," the deer emerges as a powerful symbol. Historically central to the Even's existence, the deer represented sustenance, mobility, and spiritual significance. Vasilyev's images poignantly illustrate the erosion of this bond. Statues and tapestries featuring deer motifs juxtapose with the stark reality of a dead deer, underscoring the community's fading cultural heritage. The reverence once afforded to the deer is diminishing, replaced by a utilitarian view of the animal as merely a resource. This shift mirrors broader societal changes, where younger generations gravitate towards urban life, leaving behind the practices and wisdom of their ancestors.
Vasilyev's work captures a critical moment in the Evens' history—a struggle to maintain identity amidst external pressures and internal shifts. His photographs do more than document; they provoke a reflection on the cost of modernization and the resilience of cultural identity. The Evens’ plight is emblematic of many indigenous communities worldwide, grappling with the challenge of preserving their heritage in an increasingly globalized world.
The artist’s narrative is enriched by his own connection to Yakutsk. Despite the severe climate, his childhood memories are filled with ordinary joys and the stark beauty of his environment. This personal lens adds depth to his portrayal of the Evens, making "Tompo" not just a documentary series, but a heartfelt homage to the enduring spirit of his homeland and its people.
