Bakhtiyar Berkin and Mika Barny work as a collaborative duo, whose body of work reflect how modern social, economic and political issues affect their perception of the surrounding world as well as their personal relationship. The artistic duo is moved by the question of whether consumer demand does indeed represent modern society. Bakhtiyar and Mika use exaggerated surrealist sets in order to highlight the role of consumerism and pop-culture in the modern world. In the heart of their practice lies the concept of taking things made solely for consumption and converting them into something more valuable. The duo finds the whole process of collecting items philosophical, as they transform trivial items into something that would convey very deep and valuable meaning for them. Each item in their photographs is symbolical of their personal experiences and beliefs.

Mika and Bakhtiyar’s work is a product of a long-lasting emotional bond that evolved into creative synergy. Mika Barny graduated from the London School of Economics with a BA in Economics. Later she pursued her creative interests by graduating from Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design, London. Bakhtiyar Berkin received his BA in Fine Arts from Camberwell College of Arts, London. Currently he is completing a MA in Photography in London College of Communication. Mika and Bakhtiyar’s work is based in London, UK.