Rahvan explores the transformation of
traditional Rahvan horse culture in
Türkiye through the evolving
relationship between humans, animals,
and rural landscapes. Known for their
distinctive four-beat gait and endurance,
Rahvan horses have long been embedded
in everyday life in Anatolia, serving roles
that extended beyond sport into labor,
mobility, and cultural identity. Today,
this tradition is increasingly shaped by
racing culture, selective breeding, and
the gradual loss of local practices.
Beginning in the daily environment of
horse breeder and trainer Johanna Picker
in Selçuk, İzmir, the project examines
care, physical intimacy, and long-term
commitment within human–horse
relationships. Combining observational
photography with constructed portraits,
Rahvan reflects on continuity,
adaptation, and the fragile balance
between cultural heritage and
contemporary transformation