The Zone

Developed between 2013-2020, The Zone focuses on the vast area of land that was evacuated in 1986 after the accident in the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. It explores nuclear colonialism, forced migration, eco-nationalism, and the study of future visions, amongst other themes.

The Zone (Wallpapers) documents one of the few traces left in apartments of the abandoned city of Pripyat following years of residents, ‘Liquidators’ and looters removing things to leave them ‘empty’.

Field note 10-05-16— 64328 (Wallpaper, Pripyat, Chernobyl), 2020
In collaboration with Peter Miles
Pigment inks on Ilford Galerie Smooth Pearl 310gsm
120 x 160 cm
© Raul Ortega Ayala, 1990-2026 All Rights Reserved

Field note 10-05-16—1 (Wallpaper, Pripyat, Chernobyl), 2017
Exhibition view at Durst Britt & Mayhew Gallery
In collaboration with Peter Miles
Photographic print adhered to wall
503 x 320 cm
Photo: Maarten Nauw

Field note 10-05-16—0486 (Wallpaper, Pripyat, Chernobyl), 2024
In collaboration with Peter Miles
Pigment inks on photographic paper
100 x 66.8 cm
© Raul Ortega Ayala, 1990-2026 All Rights Reserved

Field note 14-04-17— 7572 (Wallpaper, Pripyat, Chernobyl), 2017
In collaboration with Roberto Rubalcava and Peter Miles
Pigment inks on photographic paper
90 x 63.6 cm
© Raul Ortega Ayala, 1990-2026 All Rights Reserved