EXHIBITION "ENCOUNTERS WITH THE LAST SERBS IN KOSOVO" OPENS IN PARIS

BELGRADE, OCTOBER 14 /SRNA/ - An exhibition of photographs titled "Encounters with the Last Serbs in Kosovo", by South African photographer Katherine Cooper, was formally opened this evening at the Bernanos Gallery in Paris.

The black-and-white photo exhibition is part of the program of the Office for Public and Cultural Diplomacy of the Government of Serbia, headed by Arnaud Gouillon.

Gouillon said that Cooper had spent 15 days in Kosovo and Metohija, visiting monasteries and families.

"The exhibition conveys emotions and the situation on the ground without grand words, without politics, so that every French person and every journalist who comes can become aware of this disgrace — that at the beginning of the 21st century, in the heart of Europe, in Kosovo and Metohija, just two hours by plane from Paris, people are living behind barbed wire," Gouillon emphasized.

Cooper said that she first visited Kosovo and Metohija ten years ago, and her main impression was hospitality.

"It’s a place where people from the street invite you into their homes. They value closeness. I want people to see that everyone has a smile, joy, care, and sometimes sadness, but all of that is part of life. The purpose of my work is humanity and compassion," Cooper added.

She said that for her, Kosovo and Metohija is not just a local story, but a matter of European identity and a struggle for memory, faith, and freedom.

The exhibition will remain open at this gallery in Paris until October 19.