Vlad Zorin: Unmasked

Upsilon Gallery is proud to debutVlad Zorin: UNMASKED, the first London exhibition by Russian photographer Vlad Zorin, running from November 20th to January 18th. This powerful show invites viewers into Zorin’s exploration of masculinity, revealing hidden sides of male identity through his bold yet intimate images.

Zorin’s work is deeply personal, shaped by his own story of exile and adaptation. Known for his outspoken anti-war stance, he faced political backlash in Russia—particularly after his Soft Power exhibition in Moscow. Forced to flee his homeland amidst war, he sought refuge in France, wherehis journey of adaptation and self-discovery continues to influence his art.The exhibition includes pieces from the Hare series, the ongoing project Blue Brothers and With Love from France, a collection of intimate portraits and interviews with fifty men from diverse backgrounds whom Zorin met during a 1,000 km hitch hike across France. Featuring everyday people, LGBTQ+ activists, athletes, and cultural icons like artist duo Pierre et Gilles, the project examines universal challenges of racism, homophobia, and serophobia. Each man is photographed in a white mask—a liberating shield that allows these men to express a softer, often sensual side that traditional norms of masculinity may suppress. Through these images, Zorin envisions a hopefor the future where men feel comfortable expressing themselves openly, with or without the mask,celebrating freedom, vulnerability, and shared humanity.

Zorin describes the genesis of the project: “‘I left Russia and found my-self in exile in France,amidst a new culture and a language I did not know... I missed my country and my loved ones, I had no stable vision or idea of what tomorrow would bring.... Meanwhile, my country was bombing another, destroying the destinies of thousands of young people like me. With all my strength, I kept the faith in a better future and continued to work...I decided that France would be my new home,realising that I had much to learn to get closer to this country and its people. And thus began thestory of this book “With Love From France’”.Coinciding with the exhibition, Upsilon Gallery will release a limited-edition English version of With Love From France available throughout the exhibition and on the Upsilon Gallery website.Though Vlad cannot attend in person, he will connect with guests virtually on opening night,offering visitors a unique chance to interact and share in his journey. The evening will also feature aDJ set and other surprises that bring the artist’s world to life.On November 26, the gallery will host a conversation with LGBTQ+ curator Gemma Rolls Bentley,available on Upsilon Gallery Website, further exploring themes of identity, freedom, and resiliencethat resonate through Zorin’s work.