Money State (Labyrinth of reality)
Money State (Labyrinth of reality) is a photo essay that takes the viewer deep into the post-war reality of Sierra Leone. The country’s jungle acts as both a physical and psychological labyrinth, filled with the coexistence of light and darkness, civilization and barbarism. The scars of civil war are still visible: many young people have never fully reintegrated into society, instead struggling with homelessness, violence, fear, exploitation, and corruption. Ebola, COVID-19, and a severe drug crisis have further deepened the vulnerability of society.
The work explores whether life after war can be as unstable as conflict itself. The photographs reveal the paradox of innocence and evil among former child soldiers, highlighting their roles as both victims and forced actors. “Money State” depicts a community born on a landfill, where uncertainty and the longing for togetherness are interwoven.
My project does not document violence directly, but rather investigates the layers of trauma, silence, and hope. Sierra Leone represents a society where crisis is chronic and daily life is filled with profound challenges. The work invites the viewer to confront human survival, despair, and courage—a play between beauty and harshness.
Find out more:
Website: jannekorkko.fi
Instagram: @janne.korkko