Inta Ruka's exhibition 'Places Called Home' at Fotografiska presents a sensitive and authentic exploration of life in Latvia during its transition period. The exhibition showcases Ruka's unique photographic portraits of her subjects in everyday situations, captured within their homes, yards, and streets, creating a narrative that reflects both the era and the people of Latvia. Through intimate glimpses of daily life, Ruka successfully constructs an evocative portrayal of a society transitioning through change.

The exhibition comprises two series, one of which is 'Amālija Street 5a,' a long-term project documenting the residents of a multifamily building in Riga, located just minutes from the city center yet operating like a world of its own. For over four years, Ruka closely observed the lives of the people living in this wooden building, which houses approximately forty apartments, home to a diverse community of Latvians, Russians, Belarusians, children, pensioners, teachers, and builders. Each photograph serves as a window into the experiences and interactions among these individuals, illustrating the essence of contemporary Latvian life.

Ruka's work highlights a profound commentary on community and belonging, asserting that while one can choose friends, neighbors are often chosen for you. Her photographs transform the mundane into art, capturing the vibrancy of coexistence in a shared space. The exhibition not only showcases the unique demographics of this building but also profoundly encapsulates the broader societal narratives of Latvia during a crucial era of change, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of home and identity.