EXHIBITION DATES June 11–25, 2024
BLACK SEA DIALOGUES
There is much more life underwater than we expect when we look at the surface of the sea. I dive and take photos all along the southern Black Sea coast and I believe that ours is one of the most vibrant seas in the world. In recent years, I have been taking photos without scuba diving equipment, just with a mask. I want to show that you don't need special skills to see the richness of the underwater world. There is an abundance of life—sea horses, sea needles, 40-50 species of fish, several species of shrimp, 7-8 species of crabs, over 100 species of algae—and this can be seen at a depth of one meter.
The blue heart of the ocean beats in rhythm with all living creatures on our planet. The need to know, preserve, and cherish this huge organism is vital for human well-being and prosperity. The Black Sea, connected through the straits to the world ocean, is a huge museum, quietly waiting for visitors. The lack of oxygen in its depths preserves the traces of ancient civilizations that developed along the shores of the former lake more than 8,000 years ago, as well as all the ships that have sunk in its waters since then. The veil over its secrets is lifted before those who bravely face the countless challenges and dangers that accompany the aquatic environment, which is incompatible with humans. Few are chosen to devote their lives to this supreme ideal.
The sea knows neither logic nor mercy, Anton Pavlovich Chekhov wrote many years ago. Our human relationship with it is multifaceted, much like the relationships between us humans. Some are good and loving, while others are turbulent and even stormy, like the sea itself when the wild wind plays with the waves without thought or fatigue. My cause is to know, love, and play with the sea. The abundance of life in the Black Sea remains little known to the general public. I dare say that in terms of abundance of subjects for macro photography, the Bulgarian Black Sea coast ranks among the best destinations.
The aquatic environment is natural for humans; each of us spent nine months in it before we were born. Floating underwater is the closest thing to deep meditation. It is up to us whether the world we once left will fill us with terror or become the greatest adventure of our lives.
All this prompted me to embark on a dance with the Big Blue, which is also the name of my favorite movie about the sea, to discover it for myself and to share my experiences with people who are unfamiliar or distant from the subject. I believe this dance will continue for a long time because I know that the best love is the lasting kind.
Michael Zaimov
