WINNERS

Borders Behind Borders

  • Photographer
    Heikki Leis, Estonia
  • Prize
    Honorable Mention

Ruhnu - a small Estonian island can be reached by ferry or by plane. The schedule is often at the mercy of the weather. Because of the island’s inaccessibility, it has the reputation of a paradise, a tranquil haven where time seems to stand still. This draws some to seek a longer stay, locals say that if you survive two winters, you're likely to stay for good. There is a barrier between the island and the mainland. Once you cross the sea, invisible divide remains. This barrier slowly fades, but some people are unable to wait for it to vanish – they return to the mainland before it happens.