Even before the Fukushima nuclear disaster in March 2011 and the resulting renewed discussion about extending the operating lives of German nuclear power plants, I was already interested in engaging with the topic of nuclear power.
My motivations for this included the photo exhibition "Chernobyl: A Catastrophe and Its Consequences," shown in Berlin in 2006, featuring photographs by Paul Fusco, Andreas Gefeller, Anatol Kliashchuk, Igor Kostin, Rüdiger Lubricht, and Gerd Ludwig.
My previous work on the Garzweiler open-cast lignite mine, where I photographically documented the structural changes, such as the demolition of villages, was also a factor.
The villages of Kirchohsen, Latferde, Frenke, and Hajen, located on the Weser River and belonging to the municipality of Emmerthal, form the setting for my photographic work. What makes this region's environment so special is its immediate proximity to the Grohnde nuclear power plant.
The term "nuclear power plant" is hardly associated with social spaces and nature. In my documentary, I focus on the people's relationship to this environment, on everyday life, rituals and festivals, as well as on the architectural features as reflections and statements of a culture and social background.
To gain an overview of the region, I initially traveled extensively, searching for locations for my photographs.
Establishing social contacts and engaging in conversations to gather information about the local culture and history was crucial for the realization of my project.
I also learned about various events, which are documented in my work. The residents' openness and interest in my report also allowed me access to their private lives.