Diana Juliusdottir’s Photography Exhibition Shines Light on Domestic Violence
In March, Icelandic photographer Diana Juliusdottir unveiled her first solo exhibition abroad in Valencia, Spain. Titled “Red Entanglements,” the exhibition delves into the harrowing world of domestic violence and the arduous journey of a woman breaking free from its grasp. Diana was interviewed by Gudrun Gunnarsdottir on Rás 1’s program “Mannlega,” where she shared insights into her work and the inspiration behind it.
A Journey to Happiness and Light
Fourteen years ago, Diana decided to pursue her dream of learning photography. Following the end of her relationship with her children’s father, she experienced a significant transformation. “I began to contemplate what I truly wanted out of life,” Diana stated. Emphasizing the importance of her own happiness for her children’s well-being, she set out on a path of self-discovery, which included taking up photography and embarking on numerous hiking adventures with the Icelandic Touring Association.
Self-Belief as the Key to Success
Diana’s passion for photography was sparked at the age of 12 when her parents gifted her a camera. A year later, she moved to Denmark with her mother and deepened her interest by taking a photography course during her schooling there. “Since then, my interest has always been there,” she noted. Diana emphasized the cultural tendency in Iceland to view art merely as a hobby, but she challenged this notion by pursuing a career as both a photographer and an artist, driven by determination and resilience.
Valencia: A City of Inspiration and Growth
Having held numerous exhibitions in Iceland and abroad, Diana was captivated by Valencia, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Her connection to the city led her to spend six months there, during which she immersed herself in the local art scene. At Bloom Gallery, the venue for “Red Entanglements,” the owners were impressed by Diana’s work and encouraged her to apply for an exhibition. “It felt like seeing your child grow,” Diana remarked, reflecting on the process of bringing her vision to life in the nearly 300-square-meter space.
Overcoming Trauma with Hope and Art
The reception to her exhibition has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees deeply moved by the powerful narrative. A Ukrainian man residing in Valencia shared with Diana how her work resonated with him, embodying both fear and hope. “Red Entanglements” unveils the story of a woman’s struggle with domestic violence, her identity and confidence shattered by years of abuse. Diana’s friend, whose story is portrayed, is hailed as a hero for her courage in escaping the abusive relationship.
A Global Plague: The Reality of Domestic Violence
Diana’s photographic work highlights the pervasive issue of domestic violence, underscoring the possibility of escaping such situations with faith and hope. The UN Women report from November 2024 reveals alarming statistics, with a woman killed every ten minutes due to domestic violence worldwide—totaling 140 women daily. The perpetrators are often intimate partners or close family members. Diana’s work aims to shed light on this societal plague, emphasizing its prevalence in both Iceland and Spain.
Empathy and Awareness Through Art
Through “Red Entanglements,” Diana strives to tell the story of her friend’s journey with sensitivity and respect, lending her a voice. Her work serves as a powerful call for empathy and awareness, urging society to listen and learn from the stories of survivors. As Diana reflects on her friendship with the subject of her exhibition, she expresses admiration for the incredible and beautiful woman she has come to know.
Diana Juliusdottir’s “Red Entanglements” not only opens eyes to the reality of domestic violence but also offers hope and resilience to those who witness it. Her work was discussed in an interview on “Mannlega,” available for listening on the Rás 1 player.