Photographic Research Investigates the Intricate Connection Between War and Peace
# **Unveiling the Stark Divergences of War and Peace Through Digital Collage**
Currently, there are over **110 active armed conflicts** taking place worldwide, as highlighted by the [Geneva Academy](https://geneva-academy.ch/galleries/today-s-armed-conflicts), underscoring the urgent and tragic realities of warfare. Istanbul-based creator **Uğur Gallenkuş** confronts this severe global contrast through his recent publication, *Parallel Universes of War & Peace*, launched on **September 21, 2024**, in recognition of **World Peace Day**.
This compelling book artfully contrasts the destruction of war-affected regions with images of peaceful, day-to-day life, presenting an aesthetic yet pressing appeal for international unity. Through **striking digital collages**, Gallenkuş emphasizes the delicacy of peace and the necessity of unified action against conflict.
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## **A Visual Exploration of War’s Effects on Humanity**
Uğur Gallenkuş has gained international acclaim for his **side-by-side digital collages**, which place photojournalistic depictions of war alongside serene portrayals of life in peaceful areas. His latest work, *Parallel Universes of War & Peace*, enhances this potent method by categorizing its visuals into **six thematic segments**, each delving into a different aspect of war’s impact.
### **1. The Lost Innocence**
This moving section reveals one of war’s most heartbreaking effects: its toll on children. Through thoughtfully assembled collages, Gallenkuş brings to light the anguish of youth who endure life in conflict zones. A notable image contrasts an archival shot from the **Vietnam War**, illustrating frightened children escaping a napalm strike, with a tranquil depiction of a father and daughter joyfully running through a field.
### **2. Uprooted Lives**
In this part, the artist examines **displacement due to war**. The segment showcases a particularly striking collage that compares a **fashion runway setting** with an image of **Arakanese refugees** from Myanmar fleeing persecution. This contrast compels viewers to confront the glaring disparities between those living stable lives and those uprooted by conflict.
### **3. Through Iconic Lenses**
Here, Gallenkuş revisits some of history’s most **renowned war images**, highlighting their lasting importance. The collection includes pieces such as **Steve McCurry’s Afghan Girl** and **Kevin Carter’s The Vulture and the Little Girl**, reinterpreting them in a manner that enhances their emotional resonance.
### **4. Devastation and Ruins**
This section illustrates the **physical devastation that war leaves behind**, portraying bombed cities and dilapidated structures. Gallenkuş pairs these visuals with tranquil urban environments, emphasizing how swiftly the edifices of civilization can descend into decay.
### **5. The Price of War**
War entails substantial human, social, and economic tolls—this section **reveals the individuals and communities suffering the greatest burdens**. Collages depict the impacts of famine, financial dominance, and military occupation, urging viewers to consider the wider repercussions of conflict.
### **6. Hope and Advocacy**
In spite of its often somber themes, *Parallel Universes of War & Peace* concludes with a **hopeful and proactive emphasis**. This final segment encourages advocacy for peace, amplifying the voices of humanitarian workers, activists, and survivors dedicated to achieving a more equitable world.
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## **A Call to Action for Global Peace Advocacy**
More than merely exposing the atrocities of war, Gallenkuş’s book acts as **a rallying cry**. He prompts his audience to contemplate **how they might help forge a more peaceful existence**—whether through **raising awareness, supporting humanitarian initiatives, or promoting diplomatic solutions to global disputes**.
*”Parallel Universes of War & Peace challenges us to envision a future where the sounds of conflict fade,”* states Gallenkuş. *”Let its pages engrave themselves in your awareness, urging you to heed the pressing call for peace.”*
This declaration captures the fundamental aim of his work: to **increase awareness, ignite dialogue, and inspire active participation in peace-building efforts**.
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## **Where to Obtain *Parallel Universes of War & Peace***
*Parallel Universes of War & Peace* was released on **World Peace Day (September 21, 2024)** and can be **purchased** via Gallenkuş’s official site:
📖 **Order here** → [Uğur Gallenkuş’s Website](https://ugurgallenkus.com/)
🔍 **Follow the artist** → [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/ugurgallen/)
This book transcends being a mere art collection—it stands as an essential piece of **visual activism** that implores its audience to reflect