Eternal Embers

Hidden in the rural landscapes of İstanbul, the Torakçılar, traditional charcoal producers, carry on an ancient craft that has shaped their lives for generations. Their work is a delicate balance of fire, earth, and time—a process both physically demanding and deeply rooted in heritage.

Using time-honored techniques, the Torakçılar transform raw wood into charcoal through a slow-burning process in meticulously constructed earthen kilns. Over several days, these mounds smolder under careful supervision, their smoke curling into the sky as a testament to an enduring tradition. The result is a material that has fueled homes, kitchens, and industries for centuries.

The faces of the Torakçılar, weathered by smoke and labor, tell a story of resilience and devotion. Their hands, blackened by the very fire they nurture, are symbols of a vanishing way of life—one that is increasingly threatened by modernization and environmental change. Yet, their presence remains vital, preserving a sustainable, resourceful approach to working with nature rather than against it.

This series is a tribute to the unseen artisans of fire, whose embers continue to burn despite the winds of change.