A collection of 12 images from my visit in July 2014 under the general theme of Life and People in Artsakh. A series of moments that begin to paint an understanding of life in this country.

Two boys enjoying themselves “driving” a digger in a side street. They were swiftly moved on by a concerned resident…they found other places to have a bit of fun with their friends. Unfortunately there are very few play areas for children to go to.

The water fountain is just not designed for little-guys! Fortunately, a simple practical solution for the thirsty child…

A shop keeper in Stepanakert, complete with office chair, keeps watch over his “prize” fish, and hopes for a keen customer. Not much interest yet!

In Khdnzristan, when the livestock return back home in the evening, the village has to wait for their passing. Here the car is not “king”.

The villagers meet in the evening to discuss over the day’s events, share stories, and give the opportunity for the children to play with each other. A true community.

In the southern part of Stepanakert a young boy, and his friends, in the play area by their apartment block.

The spirit of love and friendship amongst the children in this small block in Stepanakert is heart-warming

In Stepanakert, the storm clouds were gathering, and the wind was getting stronger….time to rush home and seek shelter.

A brief respite from playing with her friends…..in the vicinity of one of the many apartment blocks in Stepanakert.

In Nor Aygestan a brother and sister have a debate over some family matters involving money. They used to live comfortably before the war, now they struggle to survive in their re-decorated house in an old Azerbaijani village

The surroundings for this old lady in Jankatagh are difficult. She lives with her sister and 2 other men from her family who have failing health. They are looking for support.

The girls put on a concert for their Grandmother in Stepanakert. I think she has heard the songs many times before – but she puts on a “brave face”
Categories: Life and People Artsakh
Russell – lovely photo’s. Russell does the Artsakh government pay the elderly a pension? Also how far is Jankatagh and Nor Aygestan from Stepanakert ?
Lisa, thanks. The Govt does pay pensions – the amount I think depends on personal circumstances – for example if you are a war widow etc. Both villages are in the Martakert region ( in between Martakert and Stepanakert) probably about 45-60 mins from Stepanakert. They are difficult to get to as the roads are very bad.