Stories in Shadows

Fotohane DARKROOM is a photography initiative based in Mardin, Turkey, co-founded by Serbest Salih and Amar Kılıç. This project is located in a region close to the borders of Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, an area where communities face the complex challenges of displacement, cultural diversity, and rebuilding lives impacted by conflict. Serbest and Amar, both accomplished photographers, launched Fotohane DARKROOM to offer children—particularly those from local and refugee backgrounds—a chance to learn and practice analog photography.

Fotohane DARKROOM provides a structured yet free-spirited environment where children learn the fundamentals of photography, including how to operate analog cameras and develop their own photographs in a darkroom. Each workshop introduces techniques that allow participants to express themselves creatively, capture their perspectives, and develop new skills. This hands-on approach empowers children by enabling them to tell their own stories and see their surroundings through new lenses, which is especially powerful for those who have faced adversity.

Beyond technical skills, Fotohane DARKROOM fosters a sense of community and support. It is a safe and inclusive space where children from different backgrounds can connect, share stories, and support each other in a welcoming atmosphere. Serbest and Amar believe that photography has a unique power to bridge cultural divides and build resilience. Through Fotohane DARKROOM, they hope to nurture not only artistic talent but also a strong, compassionate community of young people who feel seen, heard, and valued.